MRC Invites Residents to Learn Pet First Aid on June 22nd
Poughkeepsie…. The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) of Dutchess County will partner with the Dutchess County Animal Response Team (DCART) to offer Pet First Aid training onThursday, June 22nd, at 7 p.m., at the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response, 392 Creek Road in Poughkeepsie. The training is free and open to the public, but registration prior to the event is required.
“Just as for humans, basic first aid treatment and a quick, informed response can save the life of a pet,” said A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, Commissioner of the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health. “All pet owners can benefit from taking a first aid class that addresses specific issues relating to dogs, cats, and other small animals.”
Presented by Paul S. McNamara, DVM, the training will include basic animal assessment as well as the recognition and emergency treatment of dehydration, poisoning, heat stroke, burns, airway obstruction, orthopedic injuries, and more. Dr. McNamara is a tactical veterinarian and special deputy with the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the founder of Odin’s Fund, an organization whose mission is to provide free first aid training to canine handlers.
The Medical Reserve Corps of Dutchess County is part of a national network of more than 200,000 volunteers dedicated to supporting public health infrastructure as well as disaster preparedness and response in the community. Both medical professionals and non-medical volunteers are needed.
For more information about the Medical Reserve Corps, or to register, please contact MRC Coordinator Joe Ryan at (845) 486-2493 or jryan@dutchessny.gov. For information on upcoming trainings, visit www.dutchessny.gov/mrc.
