Roadside Samaritans
Those who have faced emergencies can tell you it is essential to get your first aid kit together and get familiar with first aid measures BEFORE you are confronted with an accident, emergency or sudden illness.
Many situations require fast and correct action to prevent further injury, infection or death. So assemble a first aid kit now, so that you'll be ready when you encounter an animal that needs immediate help.
Carry in your car or write on your first aid kit a list with the phone number for your vet, the closest emergency animal hospital, and poison control hotlines:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 1-888-426-4435 or National Animal Poison Control Center 1-800-548-2423.
Your kit should contain the following items (click here for a printable version):
- One collar in each size; small, medium and extra large
- A nylon leash
- Adjustable Muzzle (an injured or scared animal may try to bite)
- Pet crate or carrier (a safe way to transport)
- Blanket (the compact thermal blanket works well)
- Towels (at least 2)
- Thick work gloves and/or Kevlar gloves
- Latex or Nitrile gloves
- Bottled water
- Bowl or other container to use for water
- Freeze-dried food from a camping store
- A board for transporting injured animals
- Nylon straps
- Tarp (for transport or protecting your seat)
- Travel first aid kit
- Anti-bacterial wipes or pads
- Hot/cold gel pack
- Paper towels
- Bandanna (many uses, including muzzling or securing a torn earflap)
- Strips of cloth
- Medical Tape
- Scissors
- Multi-tool
- Fence tool
- Knife
- Flashlight
- Emergency flares AND a reflective triangle
- Work boots (for navigating terrain)
- Trash bags
- Paper grocery bag (for small animals it is the simplest, most versatile tool providing a convenient-to-carry rescue tool. If possible, put a washcloth or towel at the bottom of the bag for the animal’s comfort.)
| Transporting an Injured Animal It is best not to move an injured animal too much until it is time to transport him for additional care, but sometimes the surrounding environment requires movement. If the animal is in the road or near a hazardous area, moving to a safer location is paramount. Remember to keep yourself safe first. Deciding the proper way to move an injured animal is based on the temperament of the animal and the possible injuries. ALWAYS apply a muzzle prior to transport. If a back, neck or spinal injury is suspected, try to place the injured animal on a board or other sturdy material to prevent further injury. |