It’s a good idea to make up a home medicine kit for pets

I was recently forced to pay another visit to my friendly, neighbourhood vet.

The issue of the day, a lump on my shoulder.

Do you know what it is like having a hypochondriac for a mother? This is the third time she has rushed me to emergency for an identical looking lump. I am obviously a cyst-prone hound and there is no need to drag me down for a biopsy three times “just to make sure.”

The diagnosis was (again) a sebaceous cyst, which can be composed of dead cells or even sweat or clear fluid.

But I digress. I understand that she is being a thorough caregiver and is just very concerned about my well-being.

The vet concurred that it is hard to distinguish between some of these growths—some may be a cancerous tumour. Animal growths are common .

That said, after three in a row, I can believe that it is safe to say that the next will most likely be a cyst, but I am certain that I will be thrown into the back of the ambulance yet again.

Following this emergency medical scare, I was reminded of all the other lumps and bumps that occur during the frolicking outdoor summer months.

Bug bites, eye/ear infections, thorns—all of these painful little annoyances can be tended at home with the proper supplies.

Therefore, I suggest that you purchase or prepare a first aid kit for your pet. Make sure to take it with you on road trips or camping. You can compile your own and remember it is not safe to assume that human medicine is safe for your pet Many human medicines will kill us.

Woofie’s First Aid Kit

• Adhesive tape (1-inch width) for bandaging but can also can be used as a muzzle

• Sterile dressing pads (3 inches wide) can substitute with sanitary napkins.

• Roll of cotton wool or a clean cloth for padding.

• Cling gauze

• Gauze sponges (2 inches wide) for cleaning wounds

• Elastoplast/Vetwrap

• Magazine or newspaper can act as splint.

• Thermometer.

• Scissors.

• Antiseptic soap/solution

• Antibiotic cream or ointment.

• Eye wash.

• Hydrogen peroxide 3 per cent to induce vomiting. (Give one teaspoon for each five kg of body weight

• Plastic collar to prevent biting/rubbing of eyes or wounds.

• Blanket for carrying animals

• Rope leash

• Medications specifically required by your pet

I would also suggest Dr. Bach’s Rescue Remedy for pets. It is a natural stress reliever made from a blend of flower essences—a couple of drops in your pet’s water will help calm them.

• Extra water when travelling any distances.