Pet CPR Class an overwhelming success at Redeemer, Mobile

Submitted by Nancy Buchanon, Coastline Communicator
St. Francis Guild, Church of the Redeemer – Mobile

MOBILE, AL – Close to 60 people attended the “Pet CPR & Emergency Measures” class held at Redeemer on Saturday, June 18, 2011. The class was sponsored by the St. Francis Guild (Redeemer’s animal ministry group) and the Animal ER (an emergency clinic for animals located on Government Blvd. in Mobile, Alabama).

Our instructor for the day was Barbara Robinson, LVT. She was assisted by several employees from the Animal ER in demonstrations and hands-on practice of various techniques. Special guests included dogs and cats from the City of Mobile Animal Shelter who good-naturedly allowed us to poke, prod and practice with only a few woofs and meows.

Participants spent the first half of the class learning practical information about how to handle many different kinds of medical emergency situations and the basics of CPR for cats and dogs. This was followed by hands-on experience in CPR techniques using cat and dog mannequins and demonstrations of various techniques for restraining the animals so that they could be cared for safely. Our animal friends from the city shelter allowed us to feel for pulses and heartbeats as well.

A tasty lunch was prepared and served by members of the St. Francis Guild. Participants also received goodie bags and starter first aid kits provided by the Animal ER.

Registration for attendance was so successful that we are holding another class on Saturday, August 13, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There is no charge for the class; however, anyone who would like to attend must register in advance by calling the church office at 251-639-1948 or by signing up online.  There are a limited number of seats available and the class is already half full. Registration will end no later than Friday, August 5 or when the class is full. Please join us and take advantage of this rare opportunity to learn skills that could save your pet’s life.