Pets are an important part of many families, and a new Red Cross Pet First Aid app puts lifesaving information right in the hands of dog and cat owners so they can provide emergency care until veterinary assistance is available.
The 99-cent Pet First Aid app gives iPhone and Android mobile device users instant access to expert information so they learn how to maintain their pets' health and what to do during emergencies.
“Pet owners learn how to recognize health problems and when to contact their veterinarian,” said Doug Bishop, director of communications at the Vermont & the New Hampshire Upper Valley American Red Cross.
The Pet First Aid app provides step-by-step instructions, videos and images for more than 25 common first aid and emergency situations, including how to treat wounds, control bleeding, and care for breathing and cardiac emergencies.
Additional topics include burns, car accidents, falls, and what to do for cold- and heat-related emergencies.
Other features in the app allow pet owners to:
• Create a pet profile including tag identification number, photos, list of medications, and instructions;
• Use the list of early warning signs to learn when to call their veterinarian;
• Use “click-to-call” to contact their veterinarian;
• Find emergency pet care facilities or alternate veterinarians with an animal hospital locator;
• Locate pet-friendly hotels; and
• Test their knowledge with interactive quizzes, and earn badges that they can share on their social networks along with their favorite picture of their pet.
In a press release, Bishop said that because history shows that some pet owners refused to evacuate during disasters, saying they didn't want to leave their pets behind, the Red Cross Pet First Aid app contains resources to help owners include pets in their emergency action plans.
Pet owners may also take a Red Cross pet first aid course so they can practice the skills and receive feedback. For more information and to register, visit www.redcross.org/takeaclass.