Murphy the dog
FERMANAGH pet owners are being offered the unique opportunity to learn first aid for their dogs, in what is possibly the first course of its kind in the country.
Lisbellaw man Keith McCabe, an experienced first aid trainer for humans who has also worked with dogs for many years, has been liaising with local vets to design the course, which he said will be of benefit to people on a couple of levels.
“I feel there is a need for this with pets, particularly dogs,” said Keith. “The course is structured along the course for first aid for humans. Everything in that will be covered in the course will be covered for a person as well as for dogs.”
The day-long course is planned to take place on either April 14th or 21st at Fermanagh House.
Keith said he was aware of similar courses in England, for example, but believed his course to be the first of its kind in Ireland, north or south.
It will involve learning a range of skills, such as how to deal with minor or major wounds, choking, poisons, and even how to deal with a dog that’s been injured in a road crash.
It also includes CPR for dogs, which follows the same principles as human CPR, including “mouth-to-nose”, in the case of dogs. Keith said participants would be trained in how to do this using protective gear so people don’t have to put their mouth on their dog.
“Some owners will, of course, be quite happy to do that for their pet,” he added. “I will cover the correct procedures with them, so they can protect themselves, but if it was my dog who I’ve had for 11 yeas, would I give it mouth to nose? Yes I would.”
One of the vets who has reviewed and approved Keith’s course is Cathy McCourt from the Brook Veterinary Clinic, whose customers can avail of a 10 percent discount for the course.
“I think it’s an excellent course. It’s quite comprehensive and it’s basic first aid, which would benefit all dog owners,” said Cathy, who recommended it to any dog owner.
For more information or to book your place, visit Keith’s Facebook page, Aim to Survive, or call 07791686878.
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