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Red Cross, Dogs Dig It Partner To Get People And Pets Prepared
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Lise Harwin
 
March 11, 2009
PORTLAND, Ore.– If your dog suddenly stopped breathing or broke a bone, would you know what to do? Get informed by signing up for an American Red Cross dog first aid class at Dogs Dig It doggie daycare, 1132 SE Salmon.
 
Pet first aid classes are typically offered at the Oregon Trail Chapter’s North Portland headquarters. This is only the second time that the furry mannequins will venture “off-leash” to another location.
 
“By partnering with Dogs Dig It, we hope to reach even more Portlanders who want to be responsible pet owners,” said Stephanie Morgan, health and safety director for the Oregon Trail Chapter. “Rather than holding classes in our building, this gives us the opportunity to go where dog owners are already gathering, making it easy for everyone.”
 
Dog first aid classes at Dogs Dig It will be held on:
 
Date
Time
Wednesday, March 25
6-8:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 17
6-8:30 p.m.
Monday, July 20
6-8:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 20
6-8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 11
6-8:30 p.m.
 
The course will explain how to perform rescue breathing, treat shock, respond to choking, stop bleeding, care for a suspected fracture and handle other sudden illnesses including poisoning. Attendees will also learn how to include dogs in their family emergency preparedness plan.
 
Red Cross pet first aid courses were developed by a skilled team of animal, health and emergency preparedness experts. “These classes keep pets healthy by helping owners recognize and respond to a variety of health issues and life-threatening emergencies,” said Morgan. “This is one quick and easy way for every member of the family to learn how to care for their pet.”
 
To sign up for a Red Cross dog first aid class, call 503-280-1440 or visit www.oregonredcross.org/dogs. Cat First Aid classes are also available; visit www.oregonredcross.org/cats for more information. People are welcome; pets should remain at home.
 
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In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disaster every eight hours; provides the majority of Oregon's blood supply; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; provides transportation to seniors and the disabled; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. For more information, please visit www.oregonredcross.org or join the conversation on our award-winning blog at www.oregonredcross.org/blog.