April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to refresh your knowledge on emergency pet care. While our furry friends may seem invincible—especially when they zoom around the house at lightning speed—accidents can happen in an instant. As a responsible pet owner, being prepared with the right first aid supplies and knowledge can make all the difference in an emergency. The staff at Charm City Veterinary Hospital, a Baltimore’s Best Veterinarian, would love to help you be prepared when an emergency happens. We have compiled a list of “first aid kit essentials” (see graphic) to ensure you have what you need when disaster strikes. Additionally, we would be happy to go through your kit with you to ensure you have your bases covered. We highly encourage pet owners to download the Red Cross Pet First Aid App on their phoneby texting “GETPET” to 90999. You can also stop by our office to pick up an AVMA “First Aid Guide”.
Why Pet First Aid Matters
Pets are curious and playful by nature, which can sometimes lead to injuries. From minor scrapes to more serious situations like choking or heatstroke, knowing how to respond quickly can help prevent complications and even save your pet’s life. Taking the time to prepare now means you’ll be ready if an unexpected situation arises. The goal with home first aid is to stablize you pet as much as possible until you can seek emergency care.
Build Your Pet First Aid Kit
One of the best ways to stay prepared is by keeping a well-stocked pet first aid kit in your home and car. Essential supplies include:
- Gauze & Bandages – To cover wounds and control bleeding.
- Antibiotic Ointment – To help prevent infections.
- Hydrogen Peroxide – For wound cleaning (or inducing vomiting when instructed by a vet).
- Tweezers & Scissors – Useful for removing splinters, ticks, or trimming bandages.
- Gloves & Cotton Balls – To ensure hygiene while treating wounds.
- Digital Thermometer – To monitor your pet’s temperature.
- Emergency Contact List – Includes your veterinarian’s number, a local emergency clinic, and the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline.
Keep Vaccinations, Exams & Lab Work Up to Date
Beyond having first aid supplies on hand, one of the best ways to protect your pet is through preventative care. Keeping your pet’s vaccinations, annual exam & labs current helps prevent serious illnesses and infections, making them less likely to require emergency treatment. If your pet is due for any of the above, now is a great time to schedule an appointment.
Stay Informed & Ready
This month, take a few moments to educate yourself on basic pet first aid procedures. Learning how to properly handle wounds, perform CPR, put emergency numbers in easily accesible areas &/or learn how to respond to toxin ingestion. Your knowledge can make a huge difference in an emergency, especially when you pet’s life is on the line.
Don’t wait until an accident or emergency happens—be proactive! Book a wellness exam today to ensure your pet is happy, healthy, and up to date on vaccinations. You can easily schedule your appointment by calling or texting 443-873-8431.
Stay prepared, stay informed, and keep your pets safe!