Pet First Aid!

On Sunday 24th July, Claire Stipic from the RSPCA (and an ex-trainer at KODTC) presented an extremely interesting talk on dog (or pet ) first aid.

Around 15 people attended and were rivitted for around a hour while Clarie took us throught what to do in an emergency or when we are in doubt about the health of our dogs.

Three messages that have stayed with me are:

1. Consider your own safety before you leap in and try to help an animal. Putting yourself in a situation where you are going to be injured will not help the animal.

2. We are not vets, our role is to get the animal to the vet, as quickly and safely as possible, with as little distress to the dog as possible.

3 If possible call ahead to the vet, let them know that you are coming and what the problem is. This will save very valuable time when you do get to the vet, or ensure that the vet you are going to can help you (eg does the vet have any snake anti-venom in case of snake bite).

Claire gave us a demo of doggy rescue breathing and also doggy cardiac compressions (CPR for dogs) in case of need.

A really valuable presentation , thank you Claire for your efforts.