It’s no fun to think about a pet emergency. However, being prepared ahead of time is the absolute best way to keep your pet healthy if and when something unexpected happens! Build your pet their very own emergency kit with these tips from a South Miami, FL veterinarian.

First-Aid Supplies

The bulk of your pet’s kit will be made up of first-aid essentials. These include items like gauze, bandages, a pet-safe disinfectant, adhesive medical tape, scissors, tweezers, a styptic powder to staunch bleeding, tongue depressors, a pet thermometer, nail trimmers, a few soft towels, and several pairs of latex gloves to protect your hands. Ask your veterinarian what other first-aid supplies might be necessary to include in your pet’s emergency kit.

Medical Records

Up-to-date medical records are an important but often overlooked component of your animal friend’s emergency preparedness kit. In a sealed, waterproof plastic bag, pack records of your pet’s vaccinations, any documentation of recent medical work or ongoing conditions your pet manages, and proof of ownership. A note containing your pet’s microchip number is another good idea. You may also want to pack a recent photo of your pet; this way, you know exactly where one is should your pet ever get lost or run away.

Pet Medications

Does your pet take any specific medications to manage or treat an illness? You’ll want to pack a supply in your emergency kit, as you just never know when your pet might need them. This way, you’ll always know where a supply of your pet’s medications is if the need arises and you have to administer medication quickly. Be sure to check the expiration dates on a regular basis and replace the medications if needed—emergency meds won’t do any good if they’ve expired!

Long-Term Supplies

You may want to include long-term supplies in your pet’s kit. These will be very helpful if a natural disaster, planned evacuation, or a family matter forces you and your pet to stay away from home for an extended period of time. Long-term supplies include things like a pet bed, canned food and bottled water (don’t forget to pack a can opener), food and water dishes, an extra collar and leash, etc.

Would you like more advice on what to include in your pet’s emergency kit? It never hurts to be prepared! Call your South Miami, FL animal clinic today to find out more.