Emergency Care for Trail Hounds

Dr. Acker offers a comprehensive Dog First Aid kit with all the above items and more in a compact fanny pack style case. For information, contact him at the Sun Valley Animal Center, (800) 699-2663. First Aid Kits are manufactured specifically for active canines. Available in two sizes, the Hiker for day hikes and shorter backpacking trips, and the Traveler for longer wilderness treks where professional medical assistance may be several days away. Both kits feature the same basic necessities for caring for injured dogs, including a Guide to Animal Emergencies, which provides instructions on the essentials on wound management to canine CPR. The kits also include a variety of bandages and wound dressings made specifically for animals—things like stretchy gauze and cohesive flexible bandages that not only bind a wound but wrap securely and comfortably around the dog's legs, allowing it to walk without the bandage slipping off.The kits also include medications such as: styptic powder (used to stop bleeding in torn or broken nails), Certi-Dine PVP iodine swabs for cleaning wounds, and eye/skin wash fluids for flushing out lacerations and eye injuries.The kits are packaged in tough zippered pouches. The Hiker retails for $35.95 and the Traveler, $49.95. For more information, contact Ruffwear at (888) RUFF-WEAR.