You probably have at least one first-aid kit tucked away in your home in case you, a relative, or a guest is in need of medical attention. And, while we love our pets, we don’t always think of their risk for a health emergency in the same way.

But, just like us, not every medical emergency requires an ER visit—sometimes a little bandaging or taping up is all it takes, so having a pet first-aid kit can help you prepare the next time your friend needs tending to.

Items to keep stocked:

Adhesive tape: secure bandages to protect open cuts or wounds

Alcohol wipes: use to prevent infection and clean up blood or dirt around cuts

Antibiotic ointment/hydrocortisone cream or spray: prevent infection in open cuts

Benadryl/diphenhydramine: use in the event your pet experiences an allergic reaction

Cotton balls/swabs: use to clean out very small cuts and openings

Disposable gloves: protect transferring infection to your pet’s wounds

Gauze pads and bandages: cover and protect wounds; secure hurt paws or limbs

Ice packs/heat packs: apply to an injury to prevent swelling or bruising

Important papers: rabies certificate, microchip info, and vet contact info, etc.

Nail cutters: clip nails to prevent breaking/infection

Oral syringe: safely deliver liquid medication orally

Pill treats: inconspicuously deliver pills to your pet

Scissors with blunt end: trim fur away from a wound, and cut bandages or gauze

Small flashlight: use to illuminate your pet’s ears, mouth, or nose

Sterile saline cleaning solution: flush out wounds or sores

Styptic powder: helps stop bleeding when trimming nails/grooming

Towels: wipe off dirt/blood/other materials from your pet

Tweezers: pull out splinters, bugs, plant materials, etc.