Reading police officer, John Hutchinson, and his K9, Cody, received a call on Sept. 4 about a possible intruder at the local middle school; Hutchinson had no idea what would transpire that day that would make him thankful that he attended a first aid class for working dogs offered by the University of Pennsylvania, according to AKC. The class was taken in January, and the invaluable knowledge the officer learned saved Cody's life.
Cody, a Belgian Malinois, fell 2 stories from a suspended utility room walkway, hitting a steam pipe on his way down, then the concrete floor.
Hutchinson was able to read the symptoms of internal bleeding that he had learned in his first aid course and was able to assist the veterinarians quickly with his observations, shaving off wasted time.
"He was very astute about the symptoms," Dr. Cindy Otto, a veterinarian and the executive director of Penn's Working Dog Center, said of Hutchinson, says the Philly Voice.
Will you be able to recognize these symptoms? As a pet owner, it is important to be prepared. The American Red Cross holds courses on Pet First Aid, check your local chapter to see when the next one is scheduled. Also, download AKC's free E-book and stay prepared; life can take a turn in a heartbeat.
Cody is recovering nicely, but has mounting vet bills as you can imagine. Help by clicking here. Indicate "The Friends of the Reading Police K9 Unit Fund."
When accidents hit us, we are at a heightened state of awareness, but how prepared are you if something happens to your pet? Can you be level-headed? Do you know where the emergency veterinary clinics are in your area? Do you know first aid? These steps and your readiness could mean life of death for your pet. Being ready at a moment's notice for life's disasters can save your best friends life. Get prepared! September is Pet Disaster Preparedness Month. Click here to read how you can prepare and protect your furriest family member.
