Red Cross offers pet first-aid training

FINDLAY, Ohio - The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter announced Friday that a new Pet First Aid training course will be offered on Wednesday, May 27.

“Just like with people, accidents and emergencies can happen to animals—so being prepared could make a lifesaving difference. Pet First Aid will build skills and provide guidance in emergency situations until veterinary care is available” says Executive Director Todd James. “American Red Cross Pet First Aid classes give pet owners the confidence and skills necessary to tend to unexpected emergencies until they can get their pet to a veterinarian.”

Crisi DeBrosse, a Certified Pet Care Specialist, will be leading the course. She will be covering basic First Aid procedures for dogs and cats. Upon Completion of this course participants will be able to:

• Know how to check a cat or dog that appears to be having a first aid emergency.
• Check an unconscious cat or dog for breathing and cardiac emergencies.
• Provide basic wound care and control bleeding for a cat or dog.
• Care for a cat or dog involved in a car accident.

Caring for dogs and cats will be featured in the Pet First Aid course.

James says that in the future, the Chapter will be offering separate Dog and Cat First Aid courses also. “We’re really excited to offer this training to pet owners in Hancock County. A loving pet is a part of the family and we think it’s important to know how to care for our pets in emergencies just like we need to know how to care for the rest of the family.”

Pet First Aid will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 6:00-9:00pm at the Chapter office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay. Cost of the course is $55 and pre-registration is required. Participants should bring a stuffed dog or cat.

Register online at www.hancockredcross.org or call (419) 422-9322. All participants will receive a Red Cross Dog First Aid or Cat First Aid manual to provide quick answers to questions about caring for family pets.

The manuals come with a 30-minute DVD that features step-by-step instructions on safety procedures, disaster preparedness and dealing with medical emergencies. They also receive a Red Cross Pet First Aid Kit.

Each kit comes in a hard plastic case and is stocked with the necessary supplies to treat emergencies for dogs and cats.

(Information from Findlay Living, a FOX Toledo media partner)