Our bushy-tailed friends who are always there to greet and give unconditional love depend on us for their every need, even in times of emergency.
But what if your dog were to become ill or injured, are you well prepared to handle the situation? The American Red Cross of Ventura County provides an opportunity for dog lovers to make sure they are able to deal with an emergency situation by offering a Dog First Aid Class on Saturday, August 23 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Ventura location, 2355 Portola Road.
Attendees will learn how to administer medication, recognize an actual emergency, determine dehydration, and perform CPR and first aid. In addition, participants will receive the American Red Cross Dog First Aid book with a CD with instructions on how to care for injured pets. The cost of the course is $50.
Statistics indicate that pet ownership is currently at its highest level, with 63 percent of all U.S. households owning a pet. “Pet owners share a very special bond with their pets and they are part of a family,” stated Sandy Marks, Director of Health & Safety for the American Red Cross of Ventura County. “Just like with people, accidents and emergencies can happen and being prepared by knowing what to do could make a lifesaving difference,” she added.
Pre-registration for the Dog First Aid Class is required and reservations can be made by calling the American Red Cross of Ventura County at 805-339-2234.
Since 1917, the American Red Cross of Ventura County has been meeting needs throughout the communities it serves. Each year, more than 1,200 local volunteers respond to more than 50 local disasters, teach tens of thousands of individuals vital lifesaving skills, and support the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces. The American Red Cross is not a government agency.