
Pet First Aid Training in Markham & Richmond Hill
Learn how to respond in an emergency before you need to. Practical, certified pet first aid training for dog and cat owners, groomers, and pet care professionals.
Why Rebecca Teaches This Course
Rebecca attended her first Pet First Aid course in 2022. The training reinforced something she had always believed as a groomer: knowing how to respond in an emergency is not optional. It is essential.
In 2023, she became a Certified Pet First Aid Instructor through Walks 'N' Wags, Canada's longest-running and most recognised pet first aid program. She now teaches the same course to pet owners, groomers, pet sitters, and anyone who works with or cares for animals.
The knowledge she gained directly informs how she runs the salon. Every pet at Nose To Toes is in the care of a team that knows what to do if something goes wrong.
2022
Completed Pet First Aid
Attended Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid course and CPR training.
2023
Became a Certified Instructor
Aid
Qualified to teach the Walks 'N' Wags curriculum to pet owners and professionals.
Now
Teaching in Markham
Running courses for pet owners, groomers, pet sitters, and animal care professionals across the area. Contact us for upcoming dates.




Who Should Take This Course
Anyone who spends time with dogs or cats can benefit. You do not need a professional background.
Pet Owners
Know what to do in an emergency before you are faced with one.
Groomers and pet sitters
Practical skills that apply directly to professional animal care settings. Course completion qualifies for 5 CEUs for active members of Pet Sitters International (PSI) and 10 CEUs for members of International Association of Canine Professionals.
Pet care professionals
Upon completion you are eligible for discounts on insurance premiums with ProFur Insurance
About the Course
The Walks 'N' Wags curriculum, taught by Rebecca at Nose to Toes in Markham.
The Walks 'N' Wags program has been running since 1993 and has been recognised internationally. Originally developed by Nurse Ethne Dickinson alongside a team of veterinary professionals, the curriculum has been updated regularly with input from vets and pet health specialists. The most recent edition, featuring custom illustrations, was released in 2017.
The course covers first aid and safety for both dogs and cats. It is practical, hands-on, and designed to be used in real situations.
Illustrated manual
Comprehensive reference guide to keep after the course.
Certificate
Issued on passing.
Hands-on practice
Working with live animals, not just theory.
Topics Covered
- Immediate steps to take in an emergency
- What to include in your pet first aid kit
- How to safely approach an injured animal
- Head-to-toe assessment
- Restraining and transporting an injured animal
- Recognising signs of common illness and injury
- Bleeding wounds and bone injuries
- Ear and eye injuries
- Choking and artificial respiration
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Poisoning, frostbite, and hypothermia
- Heat stroke and burns
- Administration of medications
- Prevention of illness and injury
Upcoming Dates
Dates are announced as sessions are scheduled.
Interested in the next course?
Course dates are announced as sessions are confirmed. Get in touch to register your interest or ask any questions about the training. Call 905-773-2333 or email nosetotoespets@gmail.com
Ready to Book?
Whether it's a routine groom or your dog's first time in a salon, we'll make sure they're in the right hands.
Not sure where to start? Call or text us at 905-773-2333. We're happy to talk through your pet's needs before you book.