The Savvy VetTech

What Should You Have in Your Veterinary Crash Cart?

Written by Lori Hehn | Jun 12, 2018 1:16:37 PM

A Veterinary emergency is inevitable. Being prepared and staying calm are the most important things you can do to make sure the patient is properly treated, with the goal being to provide efficient stabilization.

It is important to have a "crash cart" or central box at the emergency veterinary hospital, that has at least the majority of the basic the supplies you may need for a critical emergency. 

What should you have in your Crash Cart? 

  • Laryngoscope
  • Endotracheal tubes, ties, syringe to inflate cuff
  • IV catheters, tape, t-ports, male adapter, flush
  • Syringes and needles (various sizes)
  • Emergency Drugs:
    • Epinephrine
    • Atropine
    • Naloxone
    • Lidocaine
  • Thoracocentesis supplies
  • Gloves/sterile gloves
  • Gauze
  • Scalpel blades


Oxygen will be needed, as well as ECG and other monitoring equipment. These may not be kept with the crash cart, but they should be quickly accessed during an emergency.

In an emergency or specialty hospital, the crash cart may be more extensive and include additional drugs such as diazepam, dexamethasone, dextrose, calcium, furosemide, dopamine, and atipamezole.

Some clinics may also have a defibrillator and ambu bag available. Suction can be helpful in some instances as well. What other supplies does your hospital keep in the crash cart?

Check back soon for a CPCR (cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation) review.