by Tim Andrews
Its that time of the year! One of my mulberry trees has already gone from green to yellow and a second is well on its way. There are leaves on the ground and the mornings have recently had a crisp, hint of autumn. Hunting seasons are open or opening soon across the country. If you haven't already, now is a good time take inventory of your first aid kits to make sure you and your dog are ready. Digging into the archives, Nick inteviewed Dr. Mark Olcott to discuss just this in episode 99. Check out Mark's "comprehensive list" of what should be in your kit:
Eye Flushing Solution (Saline)
Chlorhexidine, 2% Cleansing Solution, 8oz
Isopropyl Alcohol, 50-70% (1)
Hydrogen Peroxide, 3% - in date Water Soluble Jelly i.e. K-Y
Triple Antibiotic Ointment tube (1)
Muzzle
Large Exam Gloves, disposable latex free Hand Sanitizer / Antibacterial Hand Wipes
Stethoscope (an inexpensive, $25 one is fine)
Shears or Scissors
Vice Grips, wire cutters
Penlight
Hemostats, needle nose pliers, tweezer kit
Digital Thermometer
Toenail Trimmers
Styptic powder superine is Backu)
Heat Packs (2)
Hand Towel
Diphenhydramine, i.e. "Benadryl", (24)
20ml Syringe (2),
60ml Oral Tip Syringe (1)
Athletic tape, 1" (2)
Elastic Tape, [Elastikon], 2" (1)
VetWrap/CoFlex, 2", 4" (2 each)
Gauze Bandage Roll, 2" (2) / 4" (4)
Cotton Cast Padding Roll, 2" (2
Gauze Pads, 4 x 4 (12)
Non-adherent dressing Pads (6)
Collapsible water bowl
Battery operated clippers
Skin stapler
Plastic Wrap (i.e. Saran Wrap)
Antibiotics (Clavamox, Metronidazole)
Joy dish soap (best for skunked dogs)
Of course, none of this is any good if you don't know how to use it. Talk to your vet before you leave on the big trip, seek out dog first aid courses, and, at a minimum, keep a field guide (like this one) in the truck as a quick reference.
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