Firstly Happy New Year! I think 2022 was the year that things really started to get back to normal a bit in terms of getting out and about. And while there are of course challenges for our businesses going into 2023, I do think that we have a lot to look forward to. – Rachel

Personally, 2022 seems to have flown by, and I have loved getting out to give my Canine First Aid workshops all around the country, and meeting so many new people who are as passionate about animal welfare as I am.

I also co-run a business called Vet on Set, which provides qualified veterinary support to film sets where animals are going to be present. As the film industry gets back to normal, it has been wonderful to see how seriously animal safety is taken in the making of our favourite programmes and being part of that.

So 2023, it’s that ‘New Year New Me’ moment isn’t it? And my appeal this January is for anyone who has not yet got their iPET Network canine first aid qualification to get booked in.

Not only does it give you a level of protection where clients are concerned, but it will also help you act safely and calmly should the worst happen, and everyone deserves to feel that way!

Since writing the course I’ve heard from so many people who not only have saved lives in their places of work but have also saved the lives of their own pets too.

People like dog walker Sammy Feehan, who thanks to her training knew exactly what to do when her beloved childhood pet Georgie suffered a seizure.

Sammy said: “Because of the training I was able to care for him all the way to the vet’s, remembering what Rachel told us, and after some medication and oxygen at the surgery he has rallied around!

“It was such a shock, and I still can’t believe that it has happened, but I am so grateful that  I knew what to do. My instincts just kicked in, but afterwards, I realised just how scary it really was and what could have happened.

“For the first three nights after it happened I slept on the floor with him to make sure that he was alright through the night.

“I think it is so important that pet professionals get this training.”

This month’s canine first aid tip is a bit different to usual, but nevertheless very important, particularly for those of us who have a town centre premises.

What to do when a dog has been involved in a road traffic accident….

Road Traffic Accident

Approach an injured dog carefully and watch for dangers on the road.

Be careful not to aggravate any injuries. It is critical that any bleeding is stopped as a priority, use your hands initially to do this.

Then transport the dog using a blanket or coat to a vehicle and then to the vet.

Monitor the dog for breathing and if the heart is beating. You may have to start CPR.

To find out more about Rachel Bean, and the iPET Network’s canine first aid qualification go to www.rachelbean.co.uk