Murphy's law states your pet will get ill or injured only on weekends,
holidays, or when you are already late for an important appointment.
Every pet owner should have certain items on hand to deal with these emergencies in a timely fashion.
A pet first aid kit should contain:
Antibacterial soap
Gauze squares/pads
Hydrogen peroxide
Immodium
Mineral oil
Pepto Bismol
Roll of gauze
Scissors
Thermometer
Triple antibiotic ointment/ Neosporin/ Bacitracin
Tweezers
When your pet has eaten something inappropriate, is ill, or injured, your first response is to call your veterinarian. Having the above items on hand will facilitate prompt and effective treatment. It may also save you a late night trip to the veterinary office. Pepto Bismol and Immodium are used to treat vomiting and diarrhea. Hydrogen peroxide can be used to induce vomiting. If vomiting is contraindicated (e.g. certain toxins and sharp objects), bread soaked with mineral oil can reduce toxin absorption or aid passage through the intestines. Dosage amounts and frequency vary greatly for each ailment and the size of the animal.
Proceed with treatment only after consulting the veterinarian.
Common household hazards for pets are similar to those for children.
Both investigate their environment by putting everything in their mouth.
When pet proofing your home, your precautions are similar to child proofing for a three-year-old toddler. Household cleansers, insecticides, rodenticides, and small objects that can cause choking should all be secured or removed. Yarn, sting, needles and thread are all tempting for cats and can cause severe intestinal damage requiring surgery. Keep these items out of harms way.
Treating wounds and injuries with the other items in your first aid kit will be discussed in future columns.
Editor's note: Dr. Laura Palminteri practices veterinary medicine at Cruz Bay Canines, Cats & Critters on St. John. A 1991 graduate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, she practiced small animal and equine medicine in New York before opening her practice on St. John.