You should always have a hunting dog first aid kit on hand or nearby in the car when out in the field with your dog. Injuries happen to even the best trained dogs even with the most responsible owner. You don't want to be stuck out in the woods without a way to treat unexpected injuries.

What can happen?

When might you need a dog first aid kit? What can go wrong out in the field? Just because you never had an accident, doesn't mean one can't happen.

Common health problems and injuries requiring attention include:

• Hypothermia and hyperthermia
• Accidental gunshot wounds
• Porcupine quill injury
• Snake bites and other animal bites
• Tearing or blunt trauma wounds

The necessary tools

You never know what emergency you may need to deal with in the field, but having a well-stocked first aid kit for your hunting dog significantly improves his chances of survival.

For a complete list of essential first aid items, check Dog First Aid Kit.

There are some items that are common to human first aid kits that can double in a dog emergency.

• Gauze sponges to blot blood from wounds.
• Bandages to wrap wounds, sprains, and breaks.
• Antibiotic ointment to disinfect cuts and scrapes.
• Saline eye wash to flush the eyes and nose of foreign materials and clean wounds.

There are also many items specific to injuries your dog might suffer in the field. Always have the following on hand:

• Vetwrap - bandaging tape designed for our furry friends.
• Karo Syrup - a sugar source used to treat dogs suffering from exertional hypoglycemia.
• Needle nose pliers - perfect for removing quills.
• Wound disinfectant - wash out any deep wounds.

Know what to do before you have to do it

Read up on basic first aid procedures you may need to know, such as dog CPR and how to address snake bites and open wounds.

Call in the experts

Before going out into the field with your hunting dog, be sure that you have the number of your local animal hospital, as well as the number of an animal treatment center near the location where you'll be.

If an injury occurs or you suspect illness due to overexertion or exposure to the elements, always call your animal health professional immediately. Dog first aid is just that, the 'first treatment' you can give, prior to getting to the Vet.

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