All good parents know the importance of having a first-aid kit ready for their children in case of accidents or emergencies. With nearly 85 percent of pet owners considering themselves their pet’s mom or dad, it’s just as important for pet parents to take precautions to keep their pets safe and healthy. April’s National Pet First-Aid Awareness Month serves as a reminder to always have a pet first-aid kit prepared and handy. Though a first-aid kit should never replace proper veterinary care, some simple remedies and devices can prevent a situation from going from bad to worse until professional help can be obtained. A basic kit should include: 1. Waterproof container that opens and closes easily but securely to hold first-aid items. 2. Pet bandages, such as Nurtured Pets’ Anti-Lick Strip Prevent, gauze pads and cotton gauze in case of cuts, scrapes or bites. 3. Hydrogen peroxide and anti-bacterial ointment to clean wounds. 4. Scissors and tweezers for cutting adhesive tape, removing splinters, etc. 5. Eyedropper for dispensing liquid medication or for cleaning wounds. 6. Phone numbers for your pet’s regular veterinarian and any nearby emergency animal hospitals. (When traveling, include numbers for animal hospitals in destination area.) 7. Hot/cold pack for soothing injuries and reducing related swelling. More safety tips and pet products can be found on-line at www.adt.com/resi/programs/pets/ and www.lovingpetsproducts.com.