Rescue Critters' Pet First Aid for Kids Empowers the Next Generation to Help Their Best Friends

LOS ANGELES - Feb. 3, 2014 - PRLog -- What would YOU do if your curious pup scored big rummaging through the garbage but then got sick?  How would YOU help Fluffy if she was choking on a fur ball or got stung by a bee?

Veterinarians are the experts, but pet lovers can help their dog or cat when an injury or illness occurs, and reacting quickly can make a big difference in the pet's recovery.  According to the American Animal Hospital Association, one out of four additional pets could be saved if one pet first aid technique was applied prior to getting veterinary care, and First Responders don't always have to be adults…kids too can play a vital role in saving their furry best friend when disaster strikes!

"Although children don't always listen to their parents, parents do listen to their kids," says Animal Care Instructor Denise Fleck on why she collaborated with Rescue Critters® on their new book Pet First Aid for Kids. "By instilling in the younger generation a passion for animals, it is my hope they will inspire their parents to learn along with them."

The book outlines basic steps, along with detailed photographs, and materials needed BEFORE you get your pet to the Veterinarian -- how to handle choking, what to do for a bee sting, how to administer rescue breathing and CPR.  "With an emphasis on safety first, it is a quick reference to teach kids, age 8 and older, what to do should their dog or cat need help," explains co-Author Sandrina Lee. "Hopefully it will bring families together learning to care for their four-legged members."

"I learned a lot from reading this book and now know what to d

o in an emergency with my pets and also how to keep them safe at home," says 7th grader Lyndsey Scoper, while 9th grader Alexis Yannuzzi explains, "It's stressful worrying about your pets.  I have 3 dogs and a cat, but I no longer have to worry.  I recommend that pet owners of all ages keep this book on hand.  I know I will!"

Veterinarian Harriet Howe comments, "I found Pet First Aid for Kids accurate and easy to follow. It’s a great book for kids and young adults…I know I would have found it intriguing at that age," and that is just what the authors are hoping all readers will discover as well since pets too are part of the family and sometimes need a helping hand.

Author Denise Fleck was raised by a Great Dane and has spent her life loving and working around animals.  A long-time rescue volunteer, she has shared Pet First-Aid & CPR skills in magazines on TV and Radio.  Twice weekly she instills her passion in high school students through an after-school animal care program she teaches as a joint venture between her city's school district and animal shelter.  In 2013, Fleck released her first in a series of illustrated children's story books sharing the joy of senior dogs entitled, Don't Judge a Book by its Cover.  Learn more at www.sunnydogink.com

Co-Author and Publisher Sandrina Lee is the owner of Thales & Co., LLC, the parent company of Rescue Critters® which was established in 1998.  With the realization that there were no simulators available for teaching pet first aid, the company went on to develop animal mannikins catering to the veterinary profession and now includes products suited to address the needs of schools, the military as well as Search & Rescue groups.  Visit www.rescuecritters.com for more information.

Pet First Aid for Kidsis available on amazon.com and other select sites and retail stores.