Dog First Aid Kit Essentials
When you’re out in the field with your dog(s), the last thing you want for your four-legged hunting buddy is an injury. Depending on when and where you are hunting, there are several different hazards that your gun dog could come across. Being proactive and prepared could save your dog’s long-term health, or even their life!
We have put together a list of some essential items that hunting dog owner should carry with them in their first-aid kit during a hunt.
Digital Thermometer
Hypothermia, and heat-stroke can both be dangerous for dogs working hard in the fields. Normal body temperature of dogs is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, plus or minus 1 degree.
A temperature above 104, or below 99 degrees Fahrenheit can indicate an emergency and necessitates immediate action to try and regulate body temperature!
Antiseptics and Anti-Bacterial Solutions
Help protect your dog against wounds becoming infected. Items like rubbing alcohol, and hydrogen peroxide can help clean cuts or minor lacerations. If unsure what type may be right for your dog, speak with your vet for their professional take.
Bandages, Gauze, Vet-Wrap, or even Duct Tape
There are many forms of wraps for injuries. These wraps can help ensure there is protective layer over the injury until it can be properly treated by a professional.
Tweezers, Hemostats, and Nail-Clippers
For helping to get splinters, burrs, or thorns out of hard-to-reach places on your dog.
Location Information for Nearest Emergency Veterinarian Center
The items above can help when you’re in a pinch, but it’s always good to have the nearest emergency center’s information handy just in case.
As you put your first-aid kit together, you should also familiarize yourself with the signals and warning signs that might indicate something is wrong with your hunting dog, such as trembling; appearing disoriented; lameness or limping; swelling.
Accidents do happen, but by being proactive and prepared, you can help prevent minor injuries from becoming major injuries, or serious injuries from becoming fatal. When they are out in the field, our dogs have little concern for anything else but the job at hand, so it becomes our job to make sure they are protected and cared for. They work hard for us, so we should work hard for them.
