Canine First Aid

Last weekend I was fortunate enough to be invited to the “Paws on the Green” show in Potters Bar and had the fantastic opportunity to support my friend Louise Guiver of Dog First Aid Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire (www.dog-first-aid.com). Louise led a excellent demonstration of canine CPR and reminded me of the importance of these potentially lifesaving techniques.

Canine first aid is equally important for both professionals such as us physiotherapists, groomers, dog walkers, day cares and dog trainers as well as obviously the people that spend the most time with your pet, you, their owners.

Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen at any time and anywhere and while we as professionals do risk assess every situation to prevent accidents and injuries, we cannot totally eliminate all risks. It should also be remembered that first aid is not there to replace veterinary care but it is exactly as described, it’s the first aid, preserving life until you can get further veterinary assistance.

Typically, this type of training covers;

• How to check your dogs’ pulse and respiratory rate
• CPR
• How to prevent chocking
• How to stem bleeding
• What to do in the event of Hyperthermia and Hypothermia
• And much more

These are all vital skills for anyone who owns a dog, let alone works with them. Hopefully you will never need to use these skills but its better to have them and never need them.

If you are interested in learning more and local to the Hertfordshire and Central Bedfordshire areas, please look up Louise on the web site I provided at the start of this piece or alternatively contact her through her online channel.

www.facebook.com/dogfirstaidhertsandbeds/?locale=en GB

Outside this area there are lots of excellent organisations providing similar support and training and you should find them through your online browser. If you have any issues let me know and I may be able to support.