Lets talk about FIRST AID KITS...for greyhounds of course. This past week end Vicki called me when her girl was having some post-op pain. Vicki had never set up a dog first aid kit....one quick trip to the store and she has started one. After we chatted I got to thinking maybe everyone would benefit from a list of the top things for a basic first aid kit. You should be able to put together a decent kit for about $30 most things are available at Walmart or from your own cabinets. I have to confess my dog first aid kit is much better than our people first aid kit...and I always am dipping into it for people care.

Find a back pack at a yard sale and clearly mark it DOG FIRST AID. Some loud color will make it stand out in the closet or your trunk. Even a retired big purse can work. Mark it with a big ribbon (which can serve as a muzzle in a pinch)

1) Betadine - The store brand is fine and much in lower price. Diluted to a weak tea color this makes an excellent cleaning solution. All new wounds should be properly cleaned as the first line of defense against infection. When you think you have it clean, clean it again.

2) Neosporin - Basic wound care.

3) Benadryl - You don't want to find out your dog is allergic to bee stings without this on hand.

4) Rymadyl - Available only through your vet for emergency pain and inflammation control. Get enough for at least 48 hours of pain control. If your dog takes a tumble while running this will give your pup much comfort.

5) Vetwrap - This handy self sticking bandage is very versatile. Available at any farm store. Get at least 2 rolls.

6) Digital Thermometer - Walmart is where I buy mine. Take your permanent marker and label it "DOG"!! It is a good idea to write on it the normal dog temp which is within a degree of 100.5 degrees. You will also need lube like KY or Vaseline.

7) Tweezers - something to get out slivers or pluck out stitches

8) Scissors

9) Wrapping material - A hand towel, a roll of cotton, a baggie of cotton balls, a few Q-tips and a couple of maxi-pads (they are amazing on wounds...won't stick and absorb lots). Remember if wrapping a foot to put cotton between every knuckle and pad. Wrap as loose as possible. Greyhound feet are very thin skinned and prone to rubbing through the skin. You can make a minor problem major with one bad wrap.

10) A note pad and pens - Write down everything you do and the time so you can give your vet a complete history.

11) Aspirin for you or your dog - Regular old fashion real aspirin nothing added.

12) Plastic bags - A garbage bag or two and a baggie of baggies

13) A couple packets of sugar or honey. Energy gel if your greyhound is prone to low blood sugar after a run.

14) Pepto Bismol tablets - Much easier to give than the liquid.

15) Hydrogen peroxide- for making dogs throw up.

16) A business card from your vet and other phone numbers you might need in crisis.

If the kit is for the car I usually leave out the betadine (which can cause a big mess) and thermometer. I add a bottle of water and foil wrapped alcohol wipes.

For a more elaborate kit you might add more vet wrap, a tube of energy gel, skin stapler, staple remover, syringe (in a couple sizes), sterile pads, rolls of soft wrapping, sterile water (which is available in a can and will be found by the first aid supplies), electrolytes, Duct tape, A ruler and/or leg splint, bandage scissors, Ace bandage (careful to pad well under this and not to over tighten), bulb syringe, flash light or head lamp, muzzle, small nail scissors, magnifying glass, something to hold water, liniment, flea comb (excellent for getting out foxtails and other seed awns), safety pins, dog paw boots, extra leash, hard candy for people who get faint, pocket knife, handi-wipes and paper towels. If there is something your dog uses on a regular basis, that should be included. Even if you aren't sure how to use everything, chances are you can call and have someone talk you through it. Once you need it...you need it NOW.