Dog First Aid Kit Checklist

A basic first aid kit is one of those things you hope you never open. Here's what's worth having ready anyway.

The Non-Negotiables

Gauze pads, self-adhering vet wrap, adhesive tape, blunt-tip scissors, disposable gloves. That covers cleaning and wrapping a wound. Add a digital thermometer and a pair of tweezers for splinters or ticks.

Worth Adding Alongside The Basics

Saline for flushing wounds or eyes, an antiseptic wipe or spray, and your vet's number (plus the nearest emergency hospital) written down somewhere in the kit itself, not just saved on your phone. And never reach for human medication without checking with your vet first. Even the common stuff can be genuinely harmful to a dog.

Two Kits, Really

One at home, somewhere you can grab it fast. A smaller version in the car or hiking bag for trips. Toss it in next to the water bowl and a bag of treats before you head out the door, and you're covered.