Canine Hemorrhage Control Kit: What's Inside and How to Use

Quick answer

A canine hemorrhage control kit contains specialized items to stop severe bleeding in dogs, such as hemostatic gauze, pressure bandages, and a tourniquet. Use it by applying direct pressure, packing wounds, and securing the bandage before transporting to a vet.

How to use the kit step by step

1. Assess the wound and protect yourself: Put on disposable gloves from the kit. Calm the dog and check the wound location and severity. If the bleeding is bright red and spurting, it's arterial and requires immediate action. Check your kit's glove size; if too small, keep larger nitrile gloves separately.
2. Apply direct pressure with hemostatic gauze: Open the hemostatic gauze and pack it firmly into the wound if possible. Hold continuous pressure for at least 3-5 minutes without lifting to check. The gauze helps clot blood faster. Do not remove gauze if blood soaks through—add more layers on top.
3. Wrap with a pressure bandage: Use the elastic bandage from the kit to wrap over the gauze, starting below the wound and working upward. Keep the wrap snug but not tight enough to cut circulation. Check the paw for warmth and color. If the paw turns cold or blue, loosen the bandage immediately.
4. Apply a tourniquet only as a last resort: If bleeding continues despite pressure and bandaging on a limb, apply the tourniquet 2-3 inches above the wound. Tighten until bleeding stops, note the time, and do not remove until a vet instructs. Tourniquets are for life-threatening hemorrhage only; improper use can cause limb damage.
5. Transport to the vet immediately: Keep the dog warm and calm during transport. Do not remove any bandages or gauze. Inform the vet what you used so they can plan treatment. Write the tourniquet application time on the bandage with a marker if possible.

Featured product

• Module 1 K9 - Canine Hemorrhage Control Kit: The Module 1 K9 - Canine Hemorrhage Control Kit is purpose-built for canine hemorrhage control, selected and assembled by a licensed firefighter/paramedic with 23+ years in the field. This kit is designed to stop bleeding in dogs before veterinary care arrives, whether you're in the backcountry, on a hunt, or at home.