Free Pet First Aid Training Helps Pet Owners Prepare for Emergencies

PORTLAND, OR – Pet emergencies rarely come with warning. A dog may suddenly struggle to breathe during a walk, a cat may return home injured after slipping outside, or a curious pet may ingest something toxic in seconds.

During National Pet Week, DoveLewis 24/7 Animal Hospital is encouraging pet owners to ask an important question: if something happened to your pet right now, would you know what to do in those first moments?

For many people, the answer is no. That uncertainty can add stress to an already emotional situation. DoveLewis is working to change that by offering free pet first aid workshops designed to help families feel more prepared and less overwhelmed when emergencies occur.

“Pet emergencies are sudden, emotional, and overwhelming,” said Emergency Veterinarian Dr. Sarah Tauber. “But what we see every day is that pet owners want to help. They just need the knowledge and confidence to act in those first critical moments before they can get their pet to us.”

Why Early Action Matters

Most pet emergencies begin at home, with a pet owner realizing something has suddenly changed. In those first moments, there is often panic alongside uncertainty about what to do next. Even a few basic skills can help pet owners take meaningful action while getting their pet to care.

“These early steps do not replace veterinary care,” said Dr. Tauber. “But they can help pet owners stay calm, think clearly, and stabilize their pet long enough to get to a veterinarian.”

DoveLewis offers free Pet First Aid & Preparedness workshops for the community, helping pet owners feel more confident in moments that matter. Registrants learn how to recognize emergencies, understand vital signs, provide basic first aid, assess injuries and wounds, and safely transport injured or ill pets to veterinary care.

The Responsibility to Be Ready

National Pet Week is a reminder of how deeply pets are woven into people’s lives, not just as animals in the home, but as family members we are responsible for every day.

In Oregon, many households include pets, and that responsibility also means being ready when something goes wrong. There is often very little time to think through what to do when every second counts, especially when a pet needs immediate help.

Pet first aid training helps bridge that gap, giving pet owners the confidence to respond and get their pet to veterinary care as quickly and safely as possible.

###