In an emergency, most of us can lay our hands on first aid and other supplies to provide an immediate response. But your favorite pet wants to know if you're as well prepared to deal with an emergency situation for him or her. According to the Humane Society, everyone who shares a home with a pet should have a basic pet emergency kit on hand.
You can buy them ready-made online or at pet stores but, because every pet's needs are different, you may want to think about building one from scratch. This, says the society, should include a pet first aid book specific to your animal/breed, phone numbers for your veterinarian and emergency clinic, paperwork in a waterproof container, a self-cling bandage and a muzzle or strips of cloth to prevent biting.
You might want to add a full range of first aid supplies plus ear cleaning solution, non-prescription antibiotic ointment, a temporary identification tag and some form of restraint appropriate to the pet, such as a leash or carrier.
Keep the kit in your home and take it with you when you travel with your pet, says the society. If traveling, you should also take medication supplies and copies of any prescriptions and vaccination certificates -- plus any other products your vet recommends.