I found a less expensive and shorter Pet CPR and First Aid class elsewhere. Why choose yours?

There are less expensive and shorter Pet CPR and First Aid courses - what I offer is an 8-hour hybrid PetSaver™ course that also includes important topics including general pet-care, dental care, and senior care. I can also teach the 4-hour version at a competitive cost if you are looking for something less comprehensive. My course differentiates itself as a hybrid course which allows for plenty of hands-on practice rather than being burdened by a web video or power-point coma. You will also receive a 40 page book and a certificate of completion at the end of the course. I have been in EMS since 2007 and offer my field expertise and real world experience. Your questions will be met with thoughtful answers based on fact rather than a summation of what I have been told as I studied to teach.

Who should attend a PetSaver™ Pet CPR, First Aid, and Care class?

If you are a pet owner, sitter, groomer, own a pet supply store, are in the pet industry (vet tech, kennel staff, boarding staff) or just love four-legged feline and canine beasts you would benefit greatly from learning Pet CPR, First-Aid, and Care. PetSaver is taught by me with a "real world" approach that comes from 12+ years of experience in the pre-hospital setting and 40+ years as being a pet owner. Youth Groups and EMS* providers may also benefit from the resource knowledge presented in this class. Contact me for further details and opportunities. *Maine law currently prohibits EMS providers from treating and transporting pets though may assist in care for K-9 units

What skills are taught in the PetSaver™ class?

PetSaver™ is a premier 8-hour course that includes the following topics: Caring for Your Senior Petizen, Learning Pet First Aid, Restraining and Muzzling, Primary Pet Assessment, CPR, Rescue Breathing, Choking Management, Bleeding and Shock Management, Fractures and Limb Injuries, Poisonings, Insect and Snake Bites, Heat and Cold Injuries, Seizure Control, Snout-to-Tail Assessment for Wellness and Injury, Vital Signs for Dogs and Cats, How to Build a First Aid Kit, Situations Requiring Immediate Veterinary Care, Medication Administration, Dental Care.

Is there a certificate provided after completing the class?

At the completion of your PetSaver™ or Pet CPR and First Aid course you will be provided a "Certificate of Completion" stating you are TRAINED in Pet CPR and First Aid. PetTech® recommends you renew your training at least every two years if not annually. The adage "you lose it if you don't use it" applies particularly for Pet CPR and First Aid. Our hands-on approach is designed to build muscle memory so that in your moment of high stress you can recall the important skills you have learned. PetTech® curriculum is designed in collaboration with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and meets and exceeds standards set by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)

Where are classes held?

My predominant location is in Kennebunk Maine with classes held at West Kennebunk Fire Station- 80 Thompson Rd or at Central Station - 1 Summer St. Porches and Pets is mobile. If you can not attend a class I have scheduled or need me to come to you, that can be arranged. What you will need: A room with enough tables and chairs for each student and space on the floor to perform skills. A wall or area that will be able to project images unobstructed from a projector. Access to a restroom.

Do you offer private classes for businesses or volunteers?

I would be happy to offer a private class for your business. If you are looking for a private class, lets talk. There are no additional fees for this offering as all fees are built in the class (some exceptions may apply*). We can schedule around what works for you- days, nights, weekends, split dates. Contact me to discuss options. Minimum class size required for private option. *Additional fees may be added depending on distance of travel

What is the maximum size class you host?

For PetSaver™ the most comfortable class size is no more than 12 people but may be as large as 20. Hiking and Walking with Your Dog has no class limit and is a 60-75 minute lecture style presentation. AHA BLS for the Healthcare Provider and Heartsaver have a maximum class size of 6-8 (larger classes may be hosted but require additional instructors).

Do you have an age limit or physical restrictions?

CPR is hard work and emotionally taxing and therefore I do not recommend any children under the age of 12 to take the course. If you have a younger child please feel free to contact me to see what we can design to give your child a great experience that caters to their physical and emotional maturity. An accompanying adult will be required for classes geared toward younger participants; my son learned human CPR at 4 years old and would occasionally assist me at classes- while he lacked the physical strength he could help someone with the technique- so there is definitely something we can put together. CPR does require physical interaction and the the ability to kneel on the ground and compress with force. If you have physical limitations contact me and we can discuss options.

Can I bring my pet to class with me?

We love our pets (or you wouldn't be here inquiring about how to help in their greatest times of need) but we do kindly ask that you leave your pet at home... Due to student allergies, facility policies, general distractedness, and good intentions gone haywire we can't allow your beloved canine or feline friend to join us. Though, please do bring a picture with you to share! Service pets are allowed. Please contact me ahead and the restriction will be waved. Class skills practice are done with "manikins" who are much more tolerant of CPR than living humans, dogs, or cats and less apt to bite.

What is the cost and how do I pay?

Costs vary per class and are listed with each course offering, PetTech® Petsaver™, Pet CPR and First Aid, and Hiking and Walking with Your Dog are registered paid through the PetTech® website- see link to the right of this page (www.PetTech.pro/Ali). There is a PayPal link at the completion of registration. Payment is due at the time of registration All AHA classes may be paid through PayPal or by check, or cash and is due on the day of the class. Contact me for PayPal details.

What is your payment policy and what forms of payment do you accept?

I accept PayPal for PetSaver™ and Pet CPR and First Aid courses and will take Cash, Check, or PayPal for other course offerings. PetSaver™ and Pet CPR and First Aid courses require payment upon registration. AHA offerings and Hiking and Walking with Your Dog payments are due on the date of the class.

What is your cancellation policy?

In the event the student cannot attend a scheduled class and has notified me within 24 hours, a credit will be issued for use in a future class. If the student is a no show or cancels in less than 24 hours the student may reschedule for a future class but will be charged a $25 administrative fee. In the unlikely event that class is cancelled by Porches and Pets, students will be offered the option of a full refund or a credit for use in a future class.

How do I book a class?

You can book a class in several ways: -Look on the Class Schedule page and see what I have upcoming and follow the instructions for registration -Contact me. I am always eager to host a class but don't want to book space if I am not going to have enough interest. I am usually willing to build a class around your needs. -For Petsaver™ and Pet CPR and First Aid go to www.PetTech.Pro/Ali and scroll to the bottom of my profile page to see what I have upcoming and register.

Do you do Fundraisers?

I would love to work with you for a fundraiser. I see this as a mutually beneficial relationship. I get to build my name and reputation and you get funds for your non-profit organization. Its a win for both of us. Contact me and lets talk details!

Can I purchase pet or CPR items at class?

For Pet related classes I will have limited items for sale such as: Bleeding Kits, In Case of Canine Emergency Bandanas (allows you to fill out important info to have on your canine friend, personalized frameable certificates with gold embossed seal for professional display, and/or PetSaver™ iron-on badges. If you know you would like any of these items, contact me ahead of the class to assure it is ordered and ready for you. Orders may also be taken at the time of class- allow for up to three weeks delivery. You may pre-order CPR face masks for AHA classes. Face masks come in a hard plastic case and are equipped with a two-way valve. Let me know prior to class if you would like one for class.

Do I get any "Freebies" with class?

PetSaver™ and Pet CPR and First Aid come with a 40 page program book, a Pet Muzzle, and a Certificate of Completion- all which are issued to you on the day of class. AHA courses come with a Certification Card at the successful completion of the class and will be issued to you within one week though often times are issued the day of. Hiking & Walking with Your Dog participants will receive handy informational flyers to reference as you prepare for your next journey.