The Best Dog First Aid Kits in 2022
- The Best Dog First Aid Kit
- 1. Thrive Dog First Aid Kit
- 2. RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit
- 3. PushOn Dog First Aid Kit
- 4. Fab Fur Gear Dog First Aid Kit
- 5. Tactical Freedom Dog Emergency Kit
- 6. Labra Pet Canine K9 Dog First Aid Kit
- 7. New Market Squared Dog Emergency Kit
- 8. RediMaster First Aid Kit for Dogs
As much as we try to keep our beloved pooches safe, accidents can happen and so being prepared for an emergency is all part of loving and caring for your dog. And to help take the stress out of an accident or canine emergency, it is always a good idea to have a well-stocked first aid kit to hand.
With all the essentials to deal with minor injuries such as a cut or torn nail, an effective first aid kit for dogs will enable you to administer that essential first aid, before getting your pup to the vet for further treatment or advice. A kit at home, in your car or a portable set for your hiking rucksack, with a K9 first aid kit, you will have the peace of mind you can act in an emergency situation. To help you choose the right medical aid for your pet, we take a look at some of the best dog first aid kits you can buy.
The Best Dog First Aid Kit
1. Thrive Dog First Aid Kit
Key Features
12-inch long x 8.5-inch wide x 4-inch thick
22 inches long fully opened
Lightweight and compact design
Reflective red cross logo
Ideal for use for both your pet and your family, this impressive 291-piece first aid kit is both versatile and great value, making it our top pick. With hospital grade medical supplies, organized inside a lightweight compact bag that is both portable and robust, there’s a lot about this first aid kit to give you some ‘just in case’ piece of mind. You get all the essential items you may need if you pooch gets himself into a scrape, from bandages and sterile dressings to tweezers, round-ended scissors and cleaning wipes.
There’s even an emergency blanket and an attention-grabbing whistle. For the price, this is a good kit to have one in your home and another in the trunk of your car, for when you take your dog out on long walks or off the beaten track. And while the tri-fold case is a decent size – 12 inches by 6.5 inches – it could fit into a larger day hiking pack. Plus, there is added space and organizers for your own tailored items, as well as a dog first aid manual, just in case.
2. RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit
Key Features
Extended zipper for easy opening
Reflective piping and label
Pet first aid pamphlet
Includes Latex-free gloves
Sometimes you just need the basics and our Best Value first aid kit is this pocket-sized bag of essentials from RC Products. This is a great little K9 first aid kit to pop in your pocket, carry bag or glove compartment in your car, meaning you are prepared for any minor ‘uh-oh’ moments when out on a walk or run in the park. Inside the neat pocket, you get gauze pads, tape, wipes, bandages, gloves and a nifty pet first aid pamphlet for extra guidance.
The pouch is made out of bright orange nylon and the top has a carabiner attached so the whole pack can be attached to a belt loop or rucksack for convenient carrying while out and about. We also like the fact that the pouch has a dual use, thanks to a rubber port which converts the pack into a poop bag dispenser. Yes, it is small and only has the basic medical supplies, but for a minor cut, scrape or torn nail or as a backup, it could come in super-handy.
3. PushOn Dog First Aid Kit
Key Features
Compact and lightweight
Durable military polyester fabric
Comes with a lifetime warranty
Includes a thermal emergency blanket
This deluxe dog first aid kit is a hardworking set that will be at home out on the mountains as it will be in the car or back at home. It is near the top end of our best dog first aid kit review but it’s a well thought out, quality pack that is reassuring to have around. But it is as a working dog first aid kit, or a dog first aid kit for hiking that this pack excels as it is compact, easy to carry and has the essentials for basic emergency first aid.
You get all the necessary bandages, dressings, wipes and gauzes to deal with minor cuts, burns, grazes and sprains and the tools you need to quickly and effectively get your pooch cleaned up and protected, while waiting for veterinary care. Add in a digital thermometer and emergency heat blanket and an attachment loop for easy stashing as you walk, and this is your pet’s outdoor first aid best friend.
4. Fab Fur Gear Dog First Aid Kit
Key Features
Durable pack design with camo pattern
Internal organizers with room for additional items
Includes emergency first aid manual
Molle loop for securing to backpacks
Ideal as a hunting dog first aid kit, or as a day-to-day pack for the active pet-owning family, this first aid kit from Fab Fur Gear has been designed for adventure. The pack is made from super-durable fabric with tough zippers and a cool camo pattern, making it easy to find. There’s a top carry handle plus back attachments to hook on to your backpack and the size is convenient to carry when outdoors.
Space inside is limited so it does carry only the essentials but there is sufficient to be able to deal with a minor emergency and get your pooch clean and stable before further medical care. There is also an informative first aid guide as well as a list of emergency contacts, including the national poison helpline. A mid-priced pack that is tough enough for robust outdoor use, just keep an eye on the supplies and ensure they are replenished as you only get so many.
5. Tactical Freedom Dog Emergency Kit
Key Features
Compact and lightweight pack
Durable and water-resistant
Essential kit for minor wounds
Belt loop for attachment
Specifically designed for the outdoor life with your pooch, this vet-approved first aid kit for pets is the ideal set for hiking and adventure trips. With outdoor bumps and scrapes in mind, it has the key items you need to be able to clean and dress minor wounds or bites. From self-adhesive elastic bandages to saline wash and a styptic pen, the aim of this dog first aid kit for hiking is for you to be able to patch up your pet and get them comfortable before returning to your car and on to veterinary care if needed.
The kit bag itself is water resistant and has a belt loop to hook onto your backpack or jacket for quick and easy access on the go. This is also a well-packed compact first aid kit for dogs to keep in your car, the RV, camper or at home.
6. Labra Pet Canine K9 Dog First Aid Kit
Key Features
Lightweight pack with handle
Contains 28 pieces of first aid kit
Internal clear compartments
Compact to fit in backpacks
Compact and bijou, you’ll be surprised by just how much is packed into this neat first aid kit for pets. Purse-sized, it contains 28 pieces of essential kit, and is perfect for keeping with you, whether on your travels with your dog or a quick walk in the park. It is missing a pet first aid guide so a little prior knowledge of what to do if your pup has a mishap is needed but everything is well packed and easy to use.
As it is compact, you will need to keep an eye on refills to keep it fully supplied but for the less than $20 price tag, this is a good essentials first aid kit for minor bumps and scrapes to keep at home or in the car. And the size and lightweight design means this K9 first aid kit will also fit in a backpack or carry bag too.
7. New Market Squared Dog Emergency Kit
Key Features
Pouch pack with carabiner attachment
25 pieces of first aid kit
Comes with a mini flashlight and collapsible dog bowl
Includes an emergency first aid guide
For your family road trip or camping holiday where your doggo is coming along for the ride, this neat 25-piece first aid kit will give you that extra peace of mind. A simple pouch with sturdy zip and carabiner for easy carrying when out on a walk, this really is a starter first aid kit for life on the go. Plus, you get a flashlight and a collapsible dog food bowl thrown in the for price.
But with any first aid kit, it is what’s inside that matters, and there is an impressive amount, giving the size of the pack. You get all the basics, from gloves and gauze pads to antiseptic wipes, bandages and scissors, although the quantities are limited so make sure you regularly top the pack up, so it is always ready to go. And there is an informative basic first aid for pets guide so you can read up on the theory so you will know what to do.
8. RediMaster First Aid Kit for Dogs
Key Features
99-piece first aid kit
Labeled sections for different kit
Durable case with carry handle
Multiple attachment options
Although a general first aid kit, this set will work just as well for your canine as it will for humans, making it an ideal all-round kit for travelling, camping or for at home. The case is solid and a good size, with the red cross making it easily visible when you need to get your hands on it in an emergency. With a top handle and secure outer zipper, you also get a side pocket for documentation and emergency numbers. And, although it weighs around one pound, you actually get 99 pieces of essential basic first aid kit at your disposal.
Inside you can see how it all fits, thanks to clever use of space, with mesh pockets and solid pouches, all clearly labelled with what is stored away. Plus, you get five separate zipped pouches for any additional items or personal medication you need to add to the first aid kit collection. For on the go emergency treatment of minor wounds, cuts and bites, this is a comprehensive and well-built first aid kit for dogs that will be ready when you and your pet ever needs it.
Best Dog First Aid Kit Buying Guide & FAQ
Features to Consider When Getting a Dog First Aid Kit
With so many sizes and types of pet first aid kits to choose from, you need to ensure you get the right one for you and your dog. Here are the main features to consider when buying a dog first aid kit:
- Contents
The main thing to consider is whether the dog medical kit you are considering has an adequate range of core first aid supplies. You can always add to your kit to tailor it to your specific needs, but it should have a broad enough selection to cover the first aid bases. If you are in any doubt what should be in your kit, seek advice from your veterinary practice.
- Your own first aid knowledge
There is no need to go for a full-on large dog emergency kit if you don’t have sufficient knowledge to put in in use, or the stomach for it. And many first aid treatments are more technique rather than product based – think CPR or how to remove an airway obstruction. Having a little essential canine first aid knowledge is just as valuable as your pet first aid kit so it’s important you are comfortable with the essentials and have the first aid kit to match. If you feel you need a little extra support, look for a kit that comes complete with a canine first aid manual or prompt cards.
- Size and type
Your dog breed, the number of pets you have and where you intend to take it, all influence your choice of pet medical aid kit. There are kits for home use, as well as portable smaller sets for travel, plus rucksack style emergency kits for outdoor use. The size of kit will also be dependent on how many dogs you have and their activity levels – a dog that loves to hike with you on the trail or go nuts when in the park is more likely to be at risk of an injury than a smaller pet who has a more sedate life. But whichever kit you choose, ensure it has the basics and you keep it stocked.
- Case
The container for your dog first aid kit needs to be durable, water-tight and easy to carry and access, as well as having enough space to keep your essential first aid supplies organized. For home use, look for a sturdy plastic or canvas case style box while for more mobile activities you need a case that is lightweight, tough and portable. Also choose a color that is bright and easy to find in an emergency, whether that’s the whole case or clear symbols on the outside.
Check out our guides on Heartworm Medicine for Dogs and CBD Oils for Dogs.
What Should a Dog First Aid Kit Contain
Many first aid kits for dogs have additional space so you can add to the contents and tailor your supplies. But as a starting point for your dog first aid kit checklist, the medical kit you choose should have the following:
- Sterile, absorbent gauze
- Saline solution or antiseptic wipes (for cleaning minor wounds). Find out more about dog wipes here.
- Antibiotic spray or ointment
- Dog thermometer
- Scissors – blunt ended and preferably curved
- Bandages – crepe and open weave. Take a look at our review of liquid bandages for dogs for more options.
- Surgical sticky tape
- Cotton wool
- Rubber gloves
- Tweezers
- Syringes
You can then add in, if not supplied:
- Blanket or towel. For more options, check out our detailed reviews of the best dog blankets and best dog towels.
- Pill box – for any specific medication your pooch needs
- Flashlight
- First Aid Manual
- Vaccination record card and emergency contact numbers
You may also like our articles on Dog Vitamins and Glucose Monitors For Dogs.
Why First Aid Kit for Dogs Is Important to Have
Always being prepared for an emergency is part of being a pet owner and a first aid kit for dogs is one of the most important things to have and ensure is close to hand. Dogs, like all animals can be unpredictable and can get in a host of scrapes as a result. Being prepared to treat minor injuries such as cuts and torn nails will also give you peace of mind, knowing you are prepared and can administer basic first aid. An emergency K9 first aid kit can also help even if your dog sustains a more serious injury as you are able to deal with the immediate aftermath of an incident – such as stemming a bleeding wound or keeping your pet warm and calm - while waiting for veterinary intervention and care.
Our Top Pick
An all-round first aid kit, with all you need to treat minor wounds and emergencies, for both your pooch and your family, the Thrive First Aid Kit is a quality set at a great value price. With an awesome 291 items, you get all the essentials to be able to treat and administer first aid for your pet, whether at home or out on the road. The case is sturdy and well-made but is lightweight and easy to carry. Plus, you get additional internal space to add your own first aid items if you need them. A top pick contender for our review’s best dog first aid kit.
FAQ
Q: How often should I replace my dog’s first aid kit?
Keeping your dog first aid kit fully supplied is essential and that means regularly ensuring all the contents are intact and still in date, with any near to or past their expiration date replaced. All items used should be replaced at the first opportunity and a regular three-month check of all your dog first aid kit contents is a good habit to have.
Q: Where should I store my dog’s first aid kit?
Make sure you keep your K9 first aid kit somewhere that is readily accessible and easy to find, especially in a stressful situation. But home dog first aid kits should also be stored well out of reach of your pets and children to keep everyone safe. When traveling, ensure your pet first aid kit is stored in your car or carry bag, especially if you take your dog off the trail and out hiking.
Q: What can you put on an open wound on a dog?
Minor and shallow wounds can be treated at home, but anything larger than one inch, is a puncture wound or is deep and profusely bleeding should be seen as soon as possible by a vet as they may well need sutures to close them. And as always, if you are in any doubt, get your vet to check. All open wounds will need cleaning, even if it is a temporary measure as you wait to see the emergency vet. Apply pressure using a clean dressing if required until the bleeding stops then use water or an antiseptic wipe gently over the wound to clean away obvious dirt and debris, reassuring your pooch all the time. Avoid alcohol wipes as these will sting and shock your pet. If it is a small wound, dab on a small amount of antiseptic cream and apply a dressing and bandage to keep the wound together and clean - and if necessary, seek professional advice.