National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month, which is a reminder to all pet parents that preparation is key to handling a dog or cat emergency. So while you might feel ready to handle an emergency involving children or adults, what about your pets?

If your pet ever needs first aid, you’ll want to have a plan and the supplies to get them the help they need. We have tips on what to include in your pet first-aid kit and guidance on how to handle an emergency involving your four-legged friend. Plus, we explore how dog insurance or cat insurance could help you cover emergency vet costs.

Pet First-Aid Kit Checklist

Your pet first-aid kit is an important tool to help address some basic pet medical needs, but contact your vet if your dog or cat is experiencing an emergency.

Here’s a simple checklist of some key items to include in your pet first-aid emergency kit:^1,2,3

• Phone numbers for your primary veterinarian, emergency animal hospital, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435), and any emergency contacts for your pet
• Disposable gloves
• Gauze pads and medical tape
• Tweezers (to remove ticks, splinters, and other foreign objects)
• Digital thermometer
• Instant cold packs
• Blunt-end scissors (for trimming fur and cutting bandages)
• Alcohol wipes
• Syringe or eyedropper
• Blanket and towels
• Antibiotic ointment
• Saline solution
• Styptic powder
• Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
• Leash, collar, and muzzle
• Medical and vaccination records

Remember to check your pet first-aid kit every 6 months or so to ensure you’re fully stocked with unexpired supplies and that your pet’s information is up to date.²

What To Do in a Pet Emergency

If your pet needs emergency care, it’s important to remain calm and contact your vet.^2,3 Your vet will provide instructions, which may include providing basic first aid so you can safely transport your pet.⁴

Approach your pet slowly and avoid any sudden movements. For your own protection, avoid trying to hug or comfort your pet and avoid direct contact with their face.^3,5 Even a pet that’s normally friendly can bite or scratch when injured or afraid.⁵ If you think your dog might bite, gently secure them with a muzzle; if you have a cat, you can restrain them by loosely wrapping them in a towel.^3,5

Once your pet is stabilized, let your vet or emergency animal hospital know you’re on the way so they can prepare to provide treatment when you arrive.

MetLife Pet Could Help You Cover the Costs of a Pet Emergency

Pet First Aid Awareness Month is all about preparing for the unexpected by having the tools to handle a pet emergency. And the same is true for handling unexpected expenses for your pet. With a MetLife Pet insurance policy, you could get help covering the costs of eligible emergency vet visits and procedures.

Ready to learn how pet insurance can help you secure coverage for emergency care? Get a free quote today.