Your dog is your best friend. You want to keep them safe and healthy. Whether you’re a new dog owner or an old pro, it’s always a good idea to have some first aid supplies on hand.

It’s not just about being prepared for an emergency, it’s about being proactive about your dog’s health and safety. You never know when they’ll get curious and ingest something they shouldn’t or jump just a little too high for the ball and land the wrong way.

Having a kit on hand and ready will also help you feel confident when faced with an emergency situation.

When it comes to first aid supplies for dog owners, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. There are pre-filled kits sold for every size and breed of dog, and there are also kits that can be customized to your needs as a pet owner. Then there is also the option to buy first aid supplies and build your own kit. So what should you be looking for? 

It is best to check with the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMA) for items they recommend. The following are just a few top picks:

First Aid Supplies for Dog Owners

1. Gauze – This is used for covering wounds and can be wrapped around limbs or used as a compress.

2. Nonstick, self-adhering bandages – These are good for wrapping around wounds or holding gauze in place.

3. Adhesive tape – Used for securing bandages or gauze pads in place.

4. Cotton balls or pads – Used for cleaning wounds and applying ointments or medications directly onto skin surfaces.

5. Hydrogen peroxide – This can be used as an antiseptic agent on open wounds before placing bandaging material over them; however, be sure to check your breed specifically as it should not be used on dogs with delicate skin. 

6. Milk of magnesia – This should be used only under the direction of a vet or poison control! It can act as an antacid to help neutralize the acid in your dog’s stomach or as a laxative to draw extra water out of the intestines.