Recently, Scout, a four-year veteran Therapy Dog and Ambassadog for MCHA, and I fulfilled a somewhat unusual request to visit to someone's private home. I received a call from Mrs. Rose* who said that she and her husband were part of a stroke support group and had found out about the VIPaws therapy animal program. Her husband is a retired firefighter and veteran who loves dogs, but did not get to visit with them often. Mr. Rose* had gone from being a very active and athletic individual, to being stuck in the house with little activity or visitors most of the time.  Mrs. Rose was hoping one of our therapy dogs might be able to come out to their house for a visit.  

All of the VIPaws therapy animal teams are registered through the Pet Partners program, which trains and screens handlers and their pets for visits to people in various facilities or public events. The regulations set by Pet Partners do not allow our volunteers to visit private homes unless there is a health care provider present during the visit for documentation and safety purposes. Under these conditions, a visit for Mr. Rose was not an option.  

However, finding new ways to reach individuals and provide the much needed service, even if only briefly, is a focus for MCHA.

Read more here. 

RED CROSS FIRST AID

Registration is limited sign up here.

April is American Red Cross Pet First Aid Awareness Month. In celebration, the MCHA will be offering our first American Red Cross Cat and Dog First Aid course.  First Aid for dogs and cats is the immediate and temporary care given to an injured animal until it can be taken to a professional veterinarian for medical care and attention.  

1. Participants will learn how to be prepared for emergencies involving a cat or dog
2. Participants will learn how to protect themselves and the animal from further harm, injury or suffering by learning prompt, effective first aid actions and care.

Topics covered in this course include (but are not limited to):

• Creating a first aid kit and disaster plan for pets
• Restraint and handling of injured dogs and cats
• Rescue Breathing and CPR for dogs and cats
• Basic care for shock, choking, wounds and other injuries
• Basic care for illnesses, seizures and cold or heat related injuries

$30 for Class

$40 for Class plus book (choose dog or cat version)

(Books are only guaranteed if you register no later than Thursday, April 9.) 

$10 for Pet First Aid Kit