When thinking about health and dogs there is much to consider. It isn't always easy to figure out what your dogs diseases symptoms mean. One thing for certain, it is important to have a first aid kit for your pet available. Accidents are bound to happen and when they do you will be prepared if you have the right tools. If you are a pet owner a Emergency/first aid kit is a necessity. What should you have in your pet's kit?

• A thermometer (rectal is best) Normal temp for a dog is 100.5 to 102.5.
• A good lubricating jelly (Always use with rectal thermometer.)
• Blunt tip scissors-These will come in handy to cut hair away from a wound.
• Bandage scissors
• Alcohol swabs for sterilization
• Antibiotic ointment.
• Gel packs which can be utilized for either hot or cold compresses.
• Q-tips
• Sterile water or contact solution for washing eyes or to clean wound.
• Splints.
• Adhesive tape-It is best to have both non stick and water proof tape.
• Sterile cotton balls.
• Sterile gauze pads.( 4 by 4 are ideal as they can be cut down or used as is.)
• Antibacterial soap
• Cling gauze bandage or rolls of gauze. (2 in. is best)
• Self adhesive bandage.
• Sturdy tweezers or forceps.
• Ear syringe.
• Stockingette (a protective bandage, holds dressings in place for foot or leg dressing).
• Razor Blade.
• Hydrogen Peroxide.
• Thermal blanket.
• Leads (collar and leash).
• Water purification tablets.
• Dog food (survival food which has a five year shelf life).
• Water boxes (survival type which has a five year shelf life).
• Rope and/or 50 feet of vinyl covered covered rope.
• Water/food dish.
• Bag Balm
• Exam gloves

You can buy first aid kits for pets but generally they do not include all of these items. It is best to either make your own or buy a basic kit and add any items that are listed here but not included in the kit. You will generally find a simple bare bones kit for sale but it is important to be prepared for all types of emergencies.

You should also include the number for the Animal Poison Hotline and Poison Control for Pets 800-548-2423 or 900-680-0000 in your emergency/pet first aid kit.

Whew! that seems like a lot for a simple first aid kit. Well, it is more than a simple first aid kit. The items in this kit will help you prepare for your pet during a disaster, where you may not have access to a store for days. Many of these items would also be useful for human use. Fact is, we never know for sure what we are up against and I am the type of person who would much rather be prepared to meet my pets needs in any emergency situation.

I know times are tough and who doesn't know the economy is bad. So, sure I get it, buying all of this could get a bit on the expensive side. I recommend that you pick up a couple of items a week. This way it will not take such a bite out of your budget and before you know it your pet's emergency/first aid kit will be complete and you will be prepared for whatever life throws at you and your pet.

Remember, it isn't a good idea to skimp when it comes to health and dogs. Being prepared for our dog diseases symptoms and accidents is always worth it. It may even save their life.