WIESBADEN, Germany (March 13, 2013) -- Caring for a pet requires a lot more than simply feeding the animal. That's one of the lessons several younger participants learned in the Wiesbaden American Red Cross' Pet First Aid class.
"Your pet is a part of your family," said Capt. Ericka Carroll, a member of the Wiesbaden Veterinary Clinic staff and class instructor. "It is important to know what to do in a medical emergency in the first critical moments to make sure your pet is safe before seeking veterinary care."
About 11 people attended the March 1 class, held at the American Red Cross offices on Clay Kaserne.
Students first learned how to be prepared in the case of an emergency. Carroll provided a list of supplies and information to have for a pet first aid kit in case of a medical emergency.
Participants also learned what the normal vital signs are for cats and dogs. They were taught how to take vital signs, such as pulse, respiratory rate and temperature, in their pets.
"Knowing what is normal is important in recognizing what is abnormal," said Carroll.
The class then went on to learn what to do in certain emergencies, such as if a pet has breathing problems, cardiac problems, an injury or a sudden illness.
Cody Ford, an owner of two small dogs, said he and his wife took the class "so we feel prepared if our dog has an accident or injury."
"I sit and walk dogs," said his wife, Claudia Penner. "I want to make sure I know what to do."
Carroll also reminded the participants to keep updated information on their pets. She told them how important it is to have updated pet tags and to keep microchip information up to date in case they are lost.
For more information regarding pet first aid visit the American Red Cross located on Clay Kaserne in Building 1023E or call civ (0611) 705-1760.
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