The Hawaii Red Cross not only gives classes on first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation for people, but for dogs and cats too.

Most people are not prepared for a pet emergency. To be honest, neither am I.

Since we consider our pets valued members of the family, it's important that we are prepared to assist them in any type of emergency.

The Red Cross is having a pet first-aid class for dogs and cats on Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

At their Diamond Head facility, you'll learn how to safely approach an injured pet, restrain a cat and muzzle a dog, treat broken bones and wounds, and create a basic pet first-aid kit. You'll also learn how to give medications, deal with seizures and poisoning, and handle cold- and heat-related emergencies such as heat stroke.

Earl Yamaguchi, Red Cross training manager, says, "in some cases, when a pet has an emergency, the owner may not be able to get to the vet in a timely manner. It's beneficial for anyone to learn how to care for their pet until they can see a professional."

The staff at the U.S. Custom Service K-9 division has undergone training in dog first aid. "Their dogs get shot at, while sniffing for drugs, so they want to be prepared," says Yamaguchi.

Besides in-depth instruction and demonstrations, each attendee will receive a cat and dog first-aid book.

Cost is $60 per person. To register, call 739-8132, 739-8142 or 739-8123.

Animal lover Leslie Kawamoto has been with the Advertiser for 19 years, or 133 in dog years. Check out her blog at www.HonoluluAdvertiser.com/Blogs.