A GODMANCHESTER animal college has created a new DVD which aims to help pet owners save the lives of their dogs. Owners can learn how to administer life-saving first aid, as well as mouth-to-snout resuscitation by watching the DVD or joining a pet first a

A GODMANCHESTER animal college has created a new DVD which aims to help pet owners save the lives of their dogs.

Owners can learn how to administer life-saving first aid, as well as mouth-to-snout resuscitation by watching the DVD or joining a pet first aid course.

The DVD, created by the College of Animal Welfare, which is based on the site of Wood Green Animal Shelters, made its debut at Crufts, but is due to go on sale at the college from next Wednesday.

Included on the £10 DVD is advice on how to treat a variety of pet health problems such as burns, fractures, shock and bee stings.

Barbara Drysdale, head of specialist training at the college, said the DVDs were proving popular. She told The Hunts Post: "People are more aware about how to treat each other, and as dogs increasingly become part of the family they also want to learn more about caring for their pets."

Monthly courses, costing £140, are also run at the college where first aid lessons allow students to work on lifelike 'dummy' dogs and cats made of rubber. They also use the dummies to offer instruction in resuscitation techniques.

However, Mrs Drysdale added: "We make sure pet owners know that if their dog stops breathing there is only quite a slim chance that resuscitation will work and they should first contact the vet before trying anything."

Owners are also advised that they need training to ensure no harm comes to them, or to the animal.

INFORMATION: To find out more about the course or DVD, call 0870 0621122 or visit the Animal Welfare College in London Road, Godmanchester.