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Thermometer-digital or mercury. Tympanic thermometers do not work. Always have a spare, as one sometimes cannot be found or is not working when you need it.
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Stethoscope-Used to listen to heart sounds and lung sounds and to count the rate of both.
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Heavy duty bandage scissors-These are the kind you see on paramedics and others these days. Also a good idea to have two pairs of these.
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Forceps or hemostats-These will reach into small places, hold tiny objects and clamp a bleeding umbilical cord (rare but this does happen).
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Gauze sponges-Twice as many as you think you need. Keep a minimum of 10 packages of 4x4’s (two to a pack). These can be purchased in bulk packages, similar to those used in surgery by humans, but they are much harder to keep clean–forget sterile. 2x2’s are handy for small cuts, etc.
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Roll gauze- 2 inch and 4 inch, one for babies and one for adults.
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Tape-any kind that can be torn so that you don’t have to stop and cut it. Silk tape and plastic tape work well. Paper and old-fashioned adhesive tape do not.
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Betadine
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Betadine Solution
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Triple antibiotic ointment
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Vet Wrap 2 inch and 4 inch. This is indespensible in my bin.
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Syringes and needles-Your veterinarian can help you choose the sizes.
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Latex gloves
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Topical would spray
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Styptic Powder
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Saline solution/sterile water-Both can be used for wound irrigation, although saline solution is better …in my opinion.
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Scrub brushes-They are wonderful for cleaning New wounds and human hands.
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K-Y jelly or other water based lubricant
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Vaseline or other petroleum based lubricant
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Pen light or small flash light
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Paper towels
