Practice makes perfect

Students learn first aid techniques for dogs, By Jennifer Jean Miller Newton — Testing their newly learned techniques on Rescue Critters Dalmatian demonstration dogs, a group of students in a Dog First Aid class fashioned muzzles from strips of gauze, learned how to locate a dog’s pulse and to give CPR. Learning the proper way to tend to canines in crisis was the focus of the class held at the office of the American Red Cross, Sussex County Chapter, on Monday, Feb. 8. Instructor Douglas Houskeeper led the class, which covered topics such as first aid techniques, spotting rabid animals, coming to the aid of a choking animal and how to administer rescue breathing and CPR on a dog. Students in the course watched an informational DVD followed by practical application of skills covered in the film. Animal lovers all The attendees took the class for various reasons. Most are pet owners and some have animals with medical conditions, but all said they wanted to be prepared to care for their pets in an urgent situation. Each participant walked away with a certification card at the end of the two-hour course. Certification for the Dog First Aid class never requires renewal or follow-up refresher courses. Houskeeper reminded students, however, their skills are not a substitute for a visit to the vet and all animals should be taken to their veterinarian for serious illness or injury. “The biggest thing here is to learn immediate first aid and care,” he said.

Learn how
The American Red Cross, Sussex County Chapter will be offering future Dog First Aid Classes. There are also classes that demonstrate first aid applications for cats and a combination class that teaches first aid techniques for both dogs and cats. For more information, contact the Red Cross at 973-579-1500.