Pet First-Aid Kit: 14 Items Every Canadian Should Pack
You won't use it often -- but the night you need it, you'll be glad it's together in one place.
The 14 items
- Gauze pads (4 inch)
- Self-adhering vet wrap (cohesive bandage)
- Saline solution (eye + wound rinse)
- Hydrogen peroxide 3% (poison-vet directed only)
- Styptic powder (nail bleeds)
- Blunt-tip scissors
- Tweezers (ticks)
- Digital thermometer (rectal)
- Disposable gloves
- Antiseptic wipes
- Sterile saline-soaked pads (single-use)
- Small flashlight
- Your vet's phone number on a card
- Pet Poison Helpline Canada: 1-855-764-7661
How to use the basics
Bleeding wound: apply pressure with gauze, wrap with vet wrap (not too tight). To vet.
Tick: grasp with tweezers as close to skin as possible, pull straight out steadily.
Suspected poisoning: call Pet Poison Helpline FIRST. Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed.
Travel kit
Slim version in your Travel Gear Pack: gauze, vet wrap, tweezers, your vet's number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get veterinary first-aid supplies?
Most pharmacies stock the basics. Veterinary suppliers stock specialty items.
Is hydrogen peroxide safe to induce vomiting?
Only under vet direction. Wrong substances + vomiting can cause worse damage.
Can I use human antibiotic ointment?
Avoid Polysporin near eyes or licked areas. Vet-approved options only.
How often should I refresh the kit?
Annually. Saline and ointments expire.
Ships travel gear across Canada?
Yes -- CAD, tracked CA shipping.
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