Register Now: Popular Pet First Aid Program Returns

Though it is definitely scary to think about, would you know how to act if your pet was in a situation that required you to intervene, health wise? I definitely wouldn't.

Our animals are part of the family, sometimes even our entire family. So knowing how to care for our fur-babies is something that more of us should consider educating ourselves on, and thankfully, such an opportunity will be returning to Dutchess County.

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Pet First Aid Training Returns To Dutchess County

Emergency preparedness for pets is an important thing for pet-owners to be aware of, and on March 5th, the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) of Dutchess County will provide a training at no cost.

Those who pre-register for the Pet First Aid Training will become educated on possible life saving skills like CPR, how to recognize signs of a heat stroke or hypothermia, how to identify gastrointestinal issues, allergies, poisoning in animals. Participants will also learn how to treat burns, eye issues, provide wound care, and more. The facilitator of the trainings is the Chief of Surgery at the Hudson Highlands Veterinary Medical Group, Paul S. McNamara, DVM.

SEE ALSO: DCSPCA Rescues 28 Cats From 'Horrific' Situation

Registration Open For March 5th Pet First Aid Training

The training itself is free, but does require pre-registration, and there is limited seating. Those interested in participating in the training should pre-register here. The first aid training session will be held at the Beacon VFW Memorial Hall, 413 Main Street, beginning at 7pm on Wednesday, March 5th.

In addition to the session with Dr. McNamara, the Dutchess County Animal Response Team (DCART) will be there with resources for pet owners on how to include pets in emergency preparedness planning at home.

The DCART, part of the Department of Emergency Response, is made up of veterinary professionals and trained volunteer community members who work to 'ensure the humane care and treatment of animals in an emergency.' This team responds to assist Emergency Management on site at situations that involve animals like pets or livestock.