First Aid Kit for your Sled Dogs: DO YOU HAVE ONE?

Store this kit in a waterproof pouch or small toolbox and the larger supplies in a plastic box. Keep this first aid kit on your dog truck. Medications or medical supplies should be checked for expiration dates periodically and outdated supplies discarded. Most all supplies are available @ pharmacies and pet supply stores or pet catalogs.

Your first aid kit should include the following:

• Latex gloves.

• Gauze sponges in a variety of sizes, both large and small.

• Roll gauze, 2-inch width.

• Roll bandages, such as gauze that stretches and clings (vet wrap).

• Materials to make a splint. This could include pieces of wood, newspaper and sticks.

• Adhesive tape.

• Non-adherent sterile pads.

• Small scissors.

• Grooming clippers or a safety razor.

• Nylon leash.

• Towel.

• Muzzle. You can use a soft collapsible one or use roll gauze as a make shift muzzle.

• Compact thermal blanket.

• Rectal thermometer (may be digital).

• Water-based sterile lubricant.

• 3% hydrogen peroxide.

• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl).

• Topical antibiotic ointment (Neosporin).

• Epsom salts.

• Baby dose syringe or eye dropper.

• Sterile eye lubricant.

• Sterile eyewash.

• Benadyl if approved by your veterinarian. This is for allergic reactions. 30-50# dog 25 mg.

• Glucose paste or corn syrup.

• Veterinary Styptic powder for small cuts, such as broken nails.

• Plastic card (like a credit card) to scrape away stingers.

• Petroleum jelly.

• Penlight.

• Clean cloth.

• Needle nose pliers.

• Your veterinarian phone number and after hours emergency vet hospital.

• National Animal Poison Control Center 1 800 548 2423.

This information reprinted from PET FIRST AID, Bobbie Mammato, DVM, MPH, in a combined effort of the American Red Cross and The Humane Society of the United States.
Copyright © 1997 Mosby. Copies are available @ 1-800-MYB-4-ARC.