Just as knowing first aid can make a difference to another person in an emergency situation, knowledge of certain first-aid skills can help you save your pet's life.
The Northumberland branch of St. John Ambulance is offering a Pet First Aid course Dec. 16 that can help you respond safely and efficiently if your pet gets sick or injured.
Many people don't know that there is such a thing as first-aid skills and knowledge specific to dogs and cats. But in situations such as choking, bleeding and fractures, this kind of training increases the chances of a positive outcome.
The course will offer instruction in such areas as resuscitation techniques like CPR, and will also give you tips on preventing dangerous situations from arising by pet-proofing your home.
First aid does not replace veterinarian care, organizers note. But handling emergency situations properly when they happen can help you recognize problems early and act on them quickly.
The training will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 16, and will take place at the St. John Ambulance office at 700 D'Arcy St., Cobourg.
Your registration fee of $120 includes a pet first-aid kit (a $32 value), and you can sign up by calling 905-372-0564 or visiting Northumberland.Branch@on.sja.ca.