TRAINEE DOGTOR
First-aid class saves dying pup PDSA has this advice for first responders
A Quick-thinking dog owner used skills she learned the week before to save her puppy’s life.
Janice Latreche, 48, performed the pet version of the Heimlich manoeuvre on Milton, who was choking when an action figure stuck in his throat.
The toy came flying out – and the lab-cross made a full recovery, thanks to tips from a PDSA first-aid course.
Janice, who works for a housing association, said: “He’d somehow got hold of my grandson’s action figure.
Panic
“I could see Milton was struggling to breathe but I did not panic and remembered the course.”
But while the PDSA charity has taught 1,000 owners and animal workers in the past 18 months, it says many people are unaware of the simple first-aid steps that could save a life.
Vet Olivia Anderson-nathan said: “Our courses can equip pet owners with valuable skills to be first responders.
“They don’t replace veterinary treatment but in an emergency they could save a pet’s life. Brushing up on
Do not panic. If your pet is hurt you will be more help if you are calm.
Call your vet. Let them know you are on your way. If it is an evening or weekend you might get a message giving details of an out-of-hours vet.
Do not try to deal with serious injuries yourself. This could put you and your pet in danger. Animals can lash out when they are in pain.
Do not give them anything to eat or drink unless your vet tells you to. the basics can make a difference. For instance, stemming bleeding using firm pressure or a temporary bandage can buy you valuable time.
“We’ve seen several examples of pet owners putting our advice into practice after coming on our courses.”
PDSA vet nurse Kylie Jones, who trained Janice, from Oldham, Greater Manchester, said: “Emergencies can occur at any time and require speedy action. Knowing what to do can be the difference between life and death.”
To learn more, download a free guide at pdsa.org.uk/petfirstaid. KNOW your animal ABCS. irway: Pull the tongue forward. Is anything in the throat? Remove anything blocking the airway. reathing: Look and listen. Can you see the chest rising and falling or feel breath from nostrils? If not, check for a heartbeat. irculation: Place your hand or ear over the chest, where the elbow meets the ribcage. Can you feel/hear a heartbeat? If not, start CPR.
CMY pug OUR vet Brian has been Faulkner, from Petplan, eating has 22 years of experience and the same as is a freelancer working all over usual and goes the country. Send your questions on regular long to Brian at: Petplan, Great West walks but has House, Great West Road, started to gain a Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 lot of weight 9DX or via Petplan’s Facebook suddenly. Why page facebook.com/ could this be? Petplanuk. If you have a story about wildlife email us at pets@people.co.uk