FIRST AID WORKSHOP

Held at the People For Animals shelter at Panjim on May 29, 2001, this was a workshop with a heart.

55 children and young people, between 10 and 75 years of age, came from all parts of Goa, braving the aftermath of the recent cyclone, in response to a single advertisement in the newspaper. They included school children on holiday, medical college students, office goers, housewives, all with one thing in common - a genuine desire to help animals in distress.

The workshop focussed on administering first aid to stray or feral animals injured or found ill. It was conducted by Lynn de Souza, Chairman of the GSPCA, assisted by honorary veterinarians, Dr Kiran Rao, and Dr Rashmi Rao. She took participants through the theory of manual handling and restraint,, the DRABC approach to first aid, with advice on how to handle burns, poison cases, maggot wounds etc. This was followed by practical exercises in muzzling, bandaging, transporting recumbent animals, and dealing with fractured limbs. Post practicals, Angela Kazi, Secretary PFA, took the participants on a walk through of the shelter, explaining how the animals are boarded, sterilised, vaccinated etc. The most critical members of the faculty however were Hope, Aunty and Buddy, the PFA's mascot doggies, who meekly allowed various body parts to be pulled and pushed for the demonstrations, and joined in the fun and frolic when it was all over in their own special way!

The workshop was inaugurated by renowned environmentalist and Trustee of PFA Goa, Mr Claude Alvares. Every participant was given a Guardian Angel certificate on completion of the program, along with a book written by Maneka Gandhi entitled First Aid for Animals, and a bottle of Nebasulf dusting powder provided by Pfizers. Participation was completely free.

This workshop will be held at least three or four times a year. Its single day, hands on format is well accepted and "learn while you're having fun" is its motto. To attend one in the future, click on the Contact Us link.