Working with dogs means being prepared for the unexpected. Whether you’re out on a group walk, grooming in your salon, or welcoming dogs into your home, accidents can and do happen. From cuts and choking incidents to heatstroke and seizures, knowing how to respond quickly and calmly can make all the difference.
Since starting my business in 2011, I’ve taken several canine first aid courses to ensure I’m as prepared as possible. While I’m not a qualified pet first aider, I believe it’s something every dog professional should prioritise – not only for the welfare of the dogs in our care but also for our own confidence and peace of mind.
Face-to-Face vs Online: What’s the Difference?
Over the years, I’ve completed both online and in-person courses, and in my experience, there’s a significant difference between the two.
Online courses can be a convenient way to get started or refresh your knowledge, especially if time or travel is a challenge. However, face-to-face courses offer something that online learning can’t replicate – hands-on practice and real-time feedback. Being able to practise bandaging, CPR, and safe handling techniques physically gives you a level of confidence that’s hard to achieve through a screen.
If you’re serious about developing your skills, I’d highly recommend choosing a course that includes practical, in-person training.
My First Course: Very Important Pets
The very first canine first aid course I did was with Very Important Pets in Wimbledon. At the time, I was seeking a way to learn the basics, and this course provided a solid introduction.
That said, I did find it quite PowerPoint-heavy, which isn’t really my learning style. I prefer a more practical, interactive approach. Still, if you’re based nearby and need a course to get started, it’s worth considering. It covers the essentials and gives you a baseline understanding of what to do in an emergency.
Why It’s Worth the Time
Canine first aid training isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about:
- Recognising the early signs of illness or injury
- Staying calm and knowing how to respond in emergencies
- Being able to offer immediate help while waiting for veterinary care
- Feeling confident that you can support the dogs in your care – and their owners – when it really counts
These aren’t just professional skills – they’re part of being a responsible and trusted dog care provider.
Where to Start
If you haven’t done a course yet, or it’s been a few years since your last one, here are a few tips:
- Start local – Look for in-person courses in your area, ideally run by professionals with veterinary or emergency backgrounds.
- Choose hands-on training – Practical experience is invaluable.
- Make it relevant – Pick a course aimed at pet professionals, not just pet owners, so the scenarios feel familiar to your day-to-day work.
I’ll be sharing more of the courses I’ve done over the years – including the pros and cons – in future posts, so if you’re unsure where to begin, stay tuned.
In the meantime, if you’ve completed a course you found particularly useful, feel free to drop me a message – I’m always happy to share recommendations.
Final thought – Canine first aid training isn’t just a box to tick. It’s a genuine investment in the safety and well-being of the dogs we work with every day. If you’ve been putting it off, take this as your sign to get started.