The days of sunshine, outdoor barbeques and drizzled chocolate over everything are here, but those simple pleasures can bring pain and heartache to our furry friends. Too much sun, smoky BBQ coals and baker's chocolate can put an end to Fifi and Fido's lazy summer days. To whom do you turn when a first aid situation lands at your feet?

Cher Luck of Country Dog & Friends has created a first aid kit for dogs and cats that will provide the peace of mind you'll need when they need you most. The kit, known as the Big Red Box, is filled with almost everything you'll need to administer a quick response at the injury site, and it will help you work toward getting your pet to the vet.

Each kit comes with two comprehensive "how-to" guides, one for dogs and one for cats. The Big Red Box includes many brand name first aid essentials that can be used for burns, external wounds or shock. "We've set up our box for all kinds of situations, from the summertime when you're back-packing to being at home using the outdoor grill. Your dog can get a burn, a terrible scratch or a thorn in a paw. These little things can pop up," Luck explained.

This season, Country Dog & Friends' summer special includes a free Tick Remover with each purchase. It's great for the family too. There's even a digital thermometer included for quick readouts, making it a complete first aid kit.

There are a number of pet first-aid kits currently in the marketplace. Bandages, gauze, a pair of scissors and cotton balls appear to be the basic components of most kits. The Big Red Box builds upon these essentials by incorporating a holistic approach to skin and wound healing. "The aborigines have used emu oil for burn relief, muscular aches and joint pain. It's perfect for pets because it's a non-toxic topical ointment. So, even if they lick the wound your pet will not be harmed," Luck noted.

What's fun about this unique kit is that the first aid essentials are forever expanding and changing. You'll always get loads of bandages and gauze in the box, but you'll also find a bottle of tea tree oil for dry, itchy patches. Tea tree oil is nature's antiseptic, great for insect bites and other skin ailments. Moreover, the family will find the tea tree oil invaluable when camping outdoors.

There is also a big aluminum blanket in the box that's ideal for camping, travel and fishing. The blanket reflects body heat and prevents shock. It's reusable and handy in the event of an emergency. Also, if you need a specific item for your kit that isn't included, they'll find it for you.

There are many reasons why people choose to become pet owners, and their lifestyles and first aid needs vary. The Big Red Box attempts to touch upon the needs of the active and laid-back pet owner lifestyles. Many households don't even maintain a first aid kit, but no one will deny that it's a good idea. Once you've made the decision to buy the Big Red Box, you will feel confident in knowing that your home, car or camping site is well equipped for the unexpected.

Country Dog & Friends began by compiling simple first aid kits for pets and donating them to senior citizens and their pet companions. Pet charities such as Heartland Working Jack Russell Terrier Club and Lighthouse Boxer Rescue are just a few organizations that have expressed a warm appreciation for the donations. "The reaction has been encouraging, and it sure feels great helping others," Luck gushed.

The mantra over at Country Dog & Friends is "Choosing to be a responsible pet owner is praiseworthy, knowing how to respond in a crisis is fundamental." This is why they urge all pet owners to read the first aid instructional guides and become familiar with all sorts of emergency situations before they occur.

The Big Red Box costs $69.95 plus shipping, and is not intended to replace your vet, but is a handy tool when you cannot get professional help immediately. The first aid kit can be purchased from their website www.countrydogandfriends.com or call 866-254-5822. It's truly the gift your pet will never outgrow.

Country Dog and Friends