Red Cross urges pet owners to download free emergency app

The app includes guidance on CPR, choking, injuries and emergency planning for pets.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The American Red Cross is encouraging pet owners to prepare for emergencies during Pet First Aid Awareness Month by downloading a free app designed to help care for animals in urgent situations.

Regional communications director for the American Red Cross Suzanne Lawler says the app, called Pet First Aid, has everything a pet owner would need, from how to handle burns and CPR to bleeding and choking.

“And that may be what you do before you get your pet to the veterinarian,” she said. “‘Do I need to go to the veterinarian?’ And, ‘How do I deal with this?’ A lot of it talks about the ABCs of pet care; and that is air way, breathing and circulation.”

The app also provides a 30-minute class that teaches pet owners first aid CPR.

“You never know when an emergency is going to happen,” she said. “Henry’s got a little bit of terrier in him; they go with their noses. They can get into things in the backyard; you could be out on a walk, and another dog could come up and bite your dog. Henry’s getting a little bit older, and they have health emergences as they get older. And when we love them like family, we need to know what to do for them in case of an emergency.”

The app also shows pet-friendly hotels in your area if you have to evacuate your home.

“This morning I put in 31210, and a myriad of hotels and motels came up where they do accept pets,” Lawler said. “You can also upload your medications to the app, so your pet’s information is at your fingertips, instead of rushing during an emergency trying to figure it out.”

The app is free in all app stores and can also be found by texting GETPET to 90999.