According to the Dogs Trust, 3.2 million dogs were acquired during the National lockdown in 2020, which means the dog population in the UK is now estimated to be around 13 million. But do these dog owners or care givers know what to do or how to deliver potentially lifesaving first aid in the event of an emergency?
On the 12th April 2022 staff from Lantra took part in a 1-day first aid course at Lantra house which was delivered by our Instructor Amanda Williams. Staff practiced their newly acquired bandaging skills for various scenarios, how to make a temporary muzzle and even practiced CPR techniques; as well as gaining lots of invaluable information on how to protect dogs from potentially life-threatening incidents.
Staff who took part in the training thoroughly enjoyed the course, here is some of the feedback received from the day:
“The course was jam packed with information – very engaging and loved the props!”
“Amanda was knowledgeable, confident, and engaging. Getting to do the practical exercises on the stand-in “dogs” was valuable and fun. A thoroughly enjoyable course with practical and useful information for dog lovers and those engaging with dogs’ day to day”.
"The course was very engaging, informative and gave us the chance to learn practical skills. Amanda was a fantastic trainer and her years of experience as a Vet Nurse really brought the course to life. I wish I had done this many years ago Amanda.”
One of Amanda’s useful basic pet first aid tips was to make sure you have your vet’s number saved on your mobile phone, including an out of hours number for emergencies.
Lantra are currently seeking Instructors in this area, and we will be holding a standardisation event this summer for anyone interested in adding this skill. If you would like to register your interest or wish to know more about becoming a Provider or an Instructor for this course, please contact our Companion Animal Market Development Officer – Clare Longstaff to find out further details.