Always keep your family veterinarian’s phone number close at hand. Ask if they see their own emergencies or if they refer to an emergency clinic, and if so, where it is and how to get there. Many family veterinarians have a printed brochure from their local emergency clinic.

Be Prepared

• Keep a first aid kit at home and in your car
• Make financial arrangements for unexpected emergencies
• Transportation: If you don’t have a car, have a backup plan – have someone that you can call at any time or a taxi service/pet ambulance

If you have a large dog, make sure you can pick it up or carry it in case it becomes immobile due to injury or collapse. A big blanket or collapsible stretcher in the back of your car can help lift the dog - be ‘back smart’, we don’t want you injured too. Ensure a muzzle is in place before lifting. Have a sturdy pet carrier for smaller companion animals.

Remember, you are providing FIRST aid; it is not a cure or a substitute for veterinary care. You should always consult your veterinarian for ‘second’ aid and professional treatment!

Fever
If you have an electronic thermometer, it can be used for rectal temperatures (discuss with your family veterinarian how to do this properly and what the normal temperature for YOUR pet should be). We do not recommend the glass kind, as these can shatter or break off – eeks! Be sure to pick up some probe covers and lubricating jelly if you plan to do this yourself.

Skunked!
Purchase a commercial product such as Skunk Off® to keep on hand in case of your dog's encounter with a skunk. Alternatively, use a home-made skunk remedy. The recipe that follows should be enough for a large breed dog. Use the mixture as you would a soap. Avoid the eyes, mouth and nose... try to rinse the eyes with saline or plain water.

Recipe: 1 liter hydrogen peroxide 3%
1/3 cup baking soda
4 liters warm water
1 teaspoon dish soap

Odds 'n Ends
Old, clean blankets, towels and socks can come in handy!
Hot water bottles