Importance of Pet First Aid
To many of us, our pets are family members. But, if these family members are
ill or injured, we cannot call the local Emergency Medical Services. We have
to stabilize the animal and transport it to our veterinarian or the local
animal emergency clinic. The most important goal of the Pet First Aid course
is to help alleviate that feeling of helplessness in dealing with an injured
animal, and to teach pet owners about preventive measures that should lessen
the chance of injury or illness.
Tips for First Aid/CPR
Yard and garden clean up time has started, getting everything tidied up for
the late fall and winter. Give extra thought this year to safety issues for
you and your children.
Are you fit enough? Are you going to be stretching and straining those
muscles or injuring your back? Try to pace yourself, spreading the work out
over a few days rather than one long hard day. Use good lifting and bending
techniques. Stop for frequent rest periods and remember to drink lots of
water.
Are the tools you are using such as ladders, in good working order and safe?
Are there tasks that you are doing where you really should be having
assistance or a professional to do the job?
If being "helped" by eager young children, remember that many of the tools
you are using are dangerous for them. When not in use, tools should be in a
safe place away from those little hands and always know where the children
are and what they are doing at all times. As the children get older, have
them assist you, taking the opportunity to explain the importance of safety
and proper operation and care of tools.
Tips for Pet First Aid
The days are shorter and we are thinking now of garden clean up and perhaps
the planting of spring bulbs. As we clean up our yards and gardens, we often
have the help of those four-legged members of the family. A lot of
temptations are out there for them such as piles of leaves and boxes of
bulbs. Many bulbs and plants are toxic to your pet. A list of these may be
available at your local greenhouse or poison centre.
As your dog or cat romps through the leaves or chews on sticks, be aware
that injuries could occur such as scratched eyes, small objects between
their toes, cuts and scratches or even an impaled object. Good supervision
of your pet's play is essential and always check them thoroughly on their
return inside
