A trip or vacation with your four-legged friend is a great thing. Finally, you have plenty of time for shared activities and a cozy get-together. But despite all the anticipation, you shouldn't neglect your travel first aid kit when planning.

It is not only important for dogs who need regular medication. A small accident or illness can happen at any time. The better prepared you are, the better you can help your four-legged friend.

In this article you will learn what belongs in your travel first aid kit.

The Travel First Aid Kit for Dogs

For a short weekend trip, the bare essentials are perfectly adequate. However, if you are going away for a long time, your dog's first aid kit should contain more. This is especially true for medications that your four-legged friend needs to take regularly. Make sure you have enough supplies and, if necessary, get enough from your vet.

It is also important to look for veterinarians at your destination in advance. If an emergency occurs, you can react immediately and save valuable time. It is best to write down the addresses and telephone numbers in your cell phone and on a piece of paper. Put this in your travel first aid kit so that you always have it to hand.

If your trip takes you abroad, you should also make sure that the vet speaks English or German.

But what exactly should be included in a travel first aid kit for your dog?

Here we give you an insight into what we pack for our four-legged friends and what we take into account in order to be as well prepared as possible for an emergency situation.

The contents of the travel first aid kit for dogs

The basic equipment includes the following items:

  • vaccination certificate
  • Tick ​​hook, natural tick protection (e.g. coconut oil), chemical tick protection (for southern areas)
  • flea comb
  • tweezers
  • thermometer
  • muzzle (this may be required in some countries)
  • Paw ointment (as prevention of injuries)
  • Different types of scissors: Claw scissors, fur scissors (to be able to cut the injuries free), bandage scissors*
  • disposable gloves
  • gauze bandages
  • compresses
  • fixation plaster
  • disposable syringes
  • emergency blanket

A little tip: Get elastic fixation bandages. They are extremely practical for the mobility of our darlings.

By the way, applying a bandage can be quite tricky. This is especially true for paw bandages. If your dog is in pain, he is probably restless and fidgety. His paw  bandaging a paw in this condition can be a challenge. That's why it's a good idea to practice applying a paw bandage thoroughly, and not just in an emergency. By practicing, you'll gain confidence and be able to react better in a stressful situation.

Another important part of your dog’s travel first aid kit is upholstery waddingThis can be used to cushion the area between the toes in case of paw or claw injuries.

The paw bandage is on, but it is wet outside and full of earthy paths? Then protect the bandage with a paw gloveIf you don't have one, you can use a blue garbage bag or a plastic bag. It doesn't look as stylish, but it does the job.

And also a protective collar belongs in your dog's travel luggage. Some four-legged friends tend to constantly nibble or lick an injury. This can lead to skin irritation and inflammation. A small injury can quickly become a big problem. Protective collars are available in many practical variations, so there is sure to be a suitable collar for your animal.

To be prepared for small, superficial injuries, you should carry the following items with you:

  • wound and healing ointment
  • disinfectant (not burning!)
  • panthenol ointment
  • zinc ointment
  • saline solution for rinsing
  • Betaisodone ointment

For minor problems affecting the eyes, Euphrasia eye drops (from Wala). These are suitable for both humans and dogs and are homeopathic.

To clean your four-legged friend’s ears, there are special ear cleaner. Wet wipes for babies are also completely sufficient.

Also helpful against possible travel sickness and excitement are Bach flower drops.

Does your four-legged friend react sensitively to new, unfamiliar situations? Then you shouldn't change his food while on vacation. Instead, take enough of his usual food with you to prevent gastrointestinal problems.

You can also ease his stress by packing his usual blanket, his favorite treats and toys. The familiar objects and smells give him security.

However, stomach problems and digestive difficulties can occur. Therefore, it does not hurt to have something calming with you, for example healing clay or Sanofor (natural moor).

Here are a few recommendations for you that we think are important:

  • Nux Vomica Globuli (against general nausea)
  • Oralpädon (in case of an acute emergency with persistent diarrhea)
  • Charcoal tablets (for diarrhea and poisoning. Also works as an immediate measure. Please go to the vet, even if the suspicion of poisoning may be small!)
  • cooling pad & hot water bottle
  • Arnica & Kytta ointment (if joint problems occur frequently)
  • Painkillers (especially if the dog is often in pain/is not healthy).

A complete travel first aid kit also includes the common medications your four-legged friend, which must be taken regularly.

Here is another checklist for download:

CHECKLIST AS PDF

These remedies are dangerous for your dog

Some medications are suitable for both humans and dogs. However, others can be life-threatening for your pet. That's why it's important to keep a strict separation between your pharmacy and your dog's.

You must not give your dog the following medications:

  • allergy medications
  • sleeping pills
  • Cough syrups that  contain pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine
  • tranquilizers
  • Painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, diclofenac or paracetamol

To be on the safe side, you should not give your dog any human medicine.Use these only if specifically prescribed by your veterinarian or if he or she declares them to be safe.

Conclusion – the travel first aid kit is a must

Even if we all hope that our pets do not become ill or injured, this risk is always present. A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for being able to help your dog quickly. Make sure that the contents are always up to date and that you have it to hand. This way you are well prepared for a possible emergency.  – your four-legged friend will thank you.

In our shop you will definitely find a first aid kit for the basic equipment❤️