Everyone needs to be prepared for emergencies, whether you are a first-time dog owner or an experienced dog parent. Ranging from sudden upset stomachs to minor injuries, having some medicines in your first aid kit for your dog can create a huge difference until professional care is available. Although basic first aid medicines cannot replace veterinary care, they can be helpful in stabilizing the condition of your dog.

In this blog, let us see the top 10 essential medicines that should be present in your first aid kit to tackle emergencies:

1. Antiseptic solution (Povidone-Iodine/Chlorhexidine)

This is used in case of abrasions, cuts and wounds. Always make sure to dilute the solution with clean water before applying. Do not apply it on deep wounds.

2. Antibiotic wound spray

The antibiotic spray is for external use only. It prevents infection at the site of a superficial injury.

3. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)

Dogs can suffer dehydration due to many causes including severe diarrhea, vomiting or extreme heat. Oral Rehydration Solution helps to restore the water-electrolyte balance.

4. Styptic Powder

It is applied externally on minor cuts and bleeds. It stops the bleed by helping to clot the blood and prevent infection. Avoid using the powder on deep or severe wounds.

5. Anti-diarrheal Probiotics

Sudden changes in your pet’s diet or environment or stress of any kind can cause loose motions. Keep probiotics handy to restore your pet’s gut health. Make sure that your Vet has approved of these probiotics. Do not give unapproved probiotics to your pet.

6. Activated Charcoal

Your curious pet ingesting something that is toxic for him has a fair chance of happening, thus keep activated charcoal handy for suspected toxin ingestion cases. However, this must be used under veterinary guidance.

7. Pain relief spray or gel

Pain relief sprays made particularly for dogs must be kept handy. They can be used in case of minor muscle strains or sprains. It is very important to make sure not to use human painkillers for your dog- They are a hazard!

8. Antihistamines (dosage prescribed by vet)

Sudden onset of mild allergic reaction brings symptoms such as itching and swelling. These can be managed by giving antihistamines until vet care is available.

9. Ear cleaning solution

Just as it is important to bathe your dog, it is also important to maintain their ear hygiene. Dogs’ ears are especially prone to infections due to wax buildup and moisture. Keep an ear cleaning solution to cleanse periodically.

10. Digital thermometer

As basic as it sounds, keeping a thermometer handy can help identify a fever early and prevent later complications. Normal temperature of dogs ranges from 101-102.5°F.

Disclaimer!

As much as being aware of what medicines to give your pet is necessary, it is also necessary that you know what is harmful for your pet and should be avoided at all costs:

Make sure to not use any antibiotics or medicines without approval from your veterinary
Make sure to not use leftover or expired medicines from previous illness

Do NOT try to self-prescribe medicines

NEVER give human painkillers such as paracetamol, diclofenac or ibuprofen to your pet.