Question 1

How long is my Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid certification valid?

Accepted Answer

Your Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid certification is valid for three years from the date of your class. Most pet professionals in Richmond and across BC re-certify before it expires to keep their skills sharp and current.

Question 2

Do you use live pets or training manikins in class?

Accepted Answer

Both — but safely. All lifesaving skills are practised on lifelike training manikins: pet CPR, choking and airway obstruction, and artificial respiration (rescue breathing). Manikins let you repeat compressions and breaths as often as you need, with hands-on coaching from your Walks 'N' Wags instructor, and no animal is ever put at risk. Live pets join us only for gentle, non-invasive skills such as head-to-toe health checks, bandaging and restraint or handling techniques — and only when the pet is calm and comfortable being handled. You're welcome to bring your own healthy, well-socialised dog when a dog spot is available in the Richmond class.

Question 3

What skills will I learn in the pet first aid course?

Accepted Answer

The 10-hour program covers CPR and rescue breathing, choking and airway obstruction, bleeding control and bandaging, shock, seizures, heatstroke and hypothermia, poisoning, wound care, vital signs, safe muzzling and transport, plus building an emergency plan and first aid kit for home, car and travel. In total you'll work through 20+ medical conditions.

Question 4

Who should take this course?

Accepted Answer

It's built for dog and cat owners, dog walkers, pet sitters, groomers, trainers, daycare and boarding staff, rescue volunteers and veterinary support teams. No medical background is needed — everything is taught from the ground up in plain language.

Question 5

Is this course recognised by employers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. At 10 hours of in-person training, Walks 'N' Wags is the most extensive pet first aid program taught in person, and it's widely recognised by pet care employers and industry associations. You receive an official Walks 'N' Wags certificate after successfully completing the class, along with an extensive, user-friendly manual and a quick pocket guide to keep in your first aid kit, bag or car.

Question 6

Is there an exam, and how do I earn my certification?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it's approachable. Your practical skills are tested throughout the course as you work through each scenario, and at the end you complete an open-book, multiple-choice exam. A grade of at least 76% is required to pass, and full participation in the course is needed. You'll have your manual with you for the exam, and the instructor covers everything you need beforehand.

Question 7

What should I bring on the day?

Accepted Answer

Bring a lunch or snacks, a water bottle, and comfortable clothes you can kneel and move in — there's a lot of floor-level practice. A notebook is handy; your course manual and all training equipment are provided.

Be the safety net your pets deserve — at home or on the job.

A thoughtful space to learn, build and make better decisions for your pet.

Training that sticks when it matters.

The most extensive pet first aid course in North America.

Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid Certification

Pet first aid in Richmond, answered.

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