DOG’S FIRST (AID)

A COUPLE of years ago I attended a dog first aid training course and I left thinking it should absolutely be mandatory for every dog owner.

Contented Pets are hosting another course from 10am to 2.30pm on May 28 at Llanfoist Village Hall, near Abergavenny, and whether you are a doggy professional or simply a dog “paw-rent”, I really urge you to go.

You will learn to familiarise yourself with your dog’s vital signs – all of which differ from dog to dog. For example, some dogs simply breathe quicker or deeper than others or maybe your dog’s gums are naturally pale or red – all things that you should know, and therefore will be able to recognise when it is abnormal. It’s information that is invaluable for the vet who may be seeing your dog for the first time, in an emergency.

Do you know how to check your dog’s pulse? How to give CPR? And that the dog should face away from you while you do so? Is your vet’s number in your phone? Would you know to ring the vet ahead of your arrival, with as much information as possible, to prepare them?

Adder bites are on the increase, for example, and giving your vet time to prepare for your arrival could easily save your “best friend’s” life.

I know I learned a tremendous amount and wondered how I had been so lucky to have got away without knowing it in all of my years as a dog parent. What I don’t know, is how any dog owner could possibly justify “not” attending one of these courses.

Contact angela@contentedpets. co.uk for more information or call 07846 653275.