By Catie Ballenger, American Red Cross
In the spirit of National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, let’s take a few steps to prepare for an emergency with our 4-legged family members. There are three things you need: Pet First Aid Kit, Pet First Aid/CPR Class, American Red Cross Pet First Aid App.
Pet First Aid Kit
These are a few of the critical items the American Red Cross recommends for your pet’s first aid kit:
- Latex (or hypoallergenic material) gloves
- Gauze sponges
- Material to make a splint
- Adhesive tape, hypoallergenic
- Tweezers
- Grooming clippers or safety razor
- Nylon leash
- Muzzle
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Rubbing alcohol
- Topical antibiotic ointment
- Insect sting stop pads
- Sterile saline wash
- Styptic powder or pencil
Pet First Aid/CPR Class
Consider taking a first aid/CPR class where you can learn basic pet first aid. Sign up for an online American Red Cross pet first aid class here. Find an American Red Cross Pet CPR class here.
American Red Cross Pet First Aid App
Download the free American Red Cross Pet First Aid App. The app provides loads of information about pet safety in the event of evacuations and in situations where you may need to provide emergency care until veterinary assistance is available. It also offers details related to the steps you can take in advance of a potential disaster. Search “American Red Cross” in your app store or by going to redcross.org/apps.