Red Cross issues new pet first aid app

Pets are an important part of many families, and a new Red Cross Pet First Aid App puts lifesaving information 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 smart phone users instant access to expert information so they learn how to maintain their pet’s health and what to do during emergencies.
“Pet owners learn how to recognize health problems and when to contact their veterinarian,” said Brad Rounds, Health & Safety Lead Training Specialist. “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.”
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 the “animal hospital locator.”
•    Locate pet-friendly hotels.
•    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.
History shows that people have not evacuated during disasters because they did not want to leave their pets behind. The Red Cross 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. People can go to redcross.org/takeaclass for information and to register.
The Red Cross has made great strides in making emergency information available whenever and wherever people need it. The Pet First Aid App and other Red Cross apps can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/mobileapps.