Why Make a Farm First Aid Kit?
If you have farm animals, then you need a farm first aid kit.
Keeping farm animals is a rewarding experience.
Some farm animals have jobs, but all farm animals are part of the family.
Prepare for emergencies by keeping a farm first aid kit on hand.
We’ve compiled the best items to include in your farm first aid kit.
What to Include
A combination of common tools and ointments is best to keep your kit small and complete.
We’ve compiled a general list for a variety of animals including horses, goats, cows, and chickens.
Create your own kit based on the animals on your farm.
Tools
Scissors – Keep scissors on hand to cut gauze or twine.
Thermometer – Since veterinary thermometers are inserted rectally, a lubricant is also necessary. An animal’s temperature can determine its overall health.
Latex Gloves – If you’re on a farm, there’s going to be some messes.
Flashlight – You never know when an animal will fall ill. A flashlight will prepare you for any situation in a dark barn or late at night.
Syringes – Oral and needle syringes are good to keep on hand for administering medicine, taking blood, or deworming.
Gauze – Gauze or wound wrap is necessary to cover open wounds or profuse bleeding.
Liquids
Lubricant – Keep lubricant on hand for veterinary thermometers.
Ointment – Udder ointment is good to have on hand for cows. Wound spray or antibiotic ointment is also a necessary addition to the first aid kit.
Rubbing Alcohol – use rubbing alcohol, iodine or saline to clean wounds and sterilize the umbilical cord of newborns.
Electrolytes – Lethargic or anorexic animals benefit from a quick dose of electrolytes before the veterinarian arrives to administer treatment.
Bloat treatment – Ruminants are susceptible to bloat, which can escalate quickly. Keep bloat treatment on hand to address the issue as quickly as possible.
Etc. Items
Epsom Salt – Hoofed animals need Epsom soaks to treat abscesses.
Become a more informed farm animal parent by checking out our best podcasts on-farm animal care, nutrition, and safety.
