FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Joanna Goriss
Telephone: 954/360-2871
Email: topdog@familydogcentral.com

Family Dog Central is Hosting a “Dog Health & Safety Expo”

Deerfield Beach, July 2, 2008 – Tails are wagging with excitement for the Dog Health & Safety Expo being held at Family Dog Central in Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, July 22 from 6-9pm.

The event will include a Pet First Aid class, hurricane preparedness hand-outs, dog massages, plus food, drinks and, of course, dog treats. Co-sponsored by Sun States Animal Blood Bank, Dog Massage by Hope and Furballs & Fleabags, this will be the first community service event being held by Family Dog Central’s owner, Joanna Goriss.

“We wanted to do something for the summer that would really benefit the dog lovers of South Florida,” said Goriss, who’s also a Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida volunteer and certified in dog first aid and CPR.

“The entire staff here at Family Dog Central has had first aid training by Sun States,” she added. “The class is ideal for every dog owner, dog trainer, groomer and retailer, and any dog lover.”

Dogs are their owners’ best friends, members of the family and lifelong companions. With over 120 million pet owners in the United States there is a tremendous need for training in first aid, because unfortunately, thousands of pets are injured every year. Pet owners spend about $30 billion annually on their pets, and would do just about anything to help them, if they knew how.

"A first aid and CPR course will prevent panic, which can be even more dangerous to your dog," said Goriss. "Knowing exactly what to do helps you to remain calm. And since there isn't a 911 for dogs, this knowledge can be a big help in an emergency."

The Sun States first aid class gives dog owners the skills necessary to monitor their dogs' health and to handle emergencies until they can get to a veterinarian. The class teaches dog owners everything from how to dress a wound to how to perform CPR. Sun States is a non-profit charitable organization consisting of a 100% volunteer companion animal blood donation program which collects and distributes donor blood to veterinarians.

Asked if dog CPR is similar to human CPR, Goriss responded, "Yes! Class participants practice life-saving skills on dog mannequins – just like people!"

Ironically, many who take dog first aid have never taken the course for humans. However, after taking the dog class, many are inspired. "Once people see the value of the course, they want to take more classes so they can be there to save the lives of human loved ones, too", said Goriss.

The event will also feature hurricane preparedness information by Family Dog Central, an approved hurricane shelter, and information on hurricane insurance for your dog.

Pre-registration and a $20 minimum donation is required for the First Aid/CPR course. Call 954-360-2871 to sign up. Leashed dogs are welcome at the event, but the First Aid/CPR course is just for people.

Family Dog Central is located at 1807 S. Powerline Road, Suite 101 in Deerfield Beach. Find out more by calling 954-360-2871 or by visiting FDC’s website at www.familydogcentral.com.

If you’d like more information, or would like to schedule an interview with Joanna Goriss, please call Family Dog Central at 954-360-2871 or email her.