In the aftermath of September 11, 2001 approximately 300 service dogs were used to assist in the search and rescue operations employed to look for survivors. They continued their search for many long hours after that tragic day to locate victims' belongings.
These animals were loyal and hard-working, and we owe them a debt of gratitude. Don't you agree that every animal deserves our love and care when it comes to disaster preparedness?
That is why I am happy that the ASPCA reminded me that September is Disaster Preparedness Month. On Thursday, September 18 at 7pm ET, the ASPCA, along with Good Morning America's Ginger Zee and experts from ASPCA, FEMA and USDA (and some very special animal guests who are disaster survivors) are offering a Google Hangout that you can be a part of.
Their goal is to educate all pet owners about the importance of including their pets when planning for an emergency. You can RSVP for this event at http://bit.ly/1BpYSrb.
Also, please stop at www.aspca.org/BePrepared to learn the latest tips and get a free rescue alert sticker. You can also find out how to download the free ASPCA App that includes a check-list of actions to take before, during and after a major storm.
Our pets take good care of us every day with their unconditional love. Show them your unconditional love by including them in your emergency plan.
Is your pet included in your emergency plan?
Something people might not think about--what a great public service this is. Thanks, Cathy, on behalf of Riley, my adorable maltipoo!
wow Cathy, that's a great point. And a great service. We are pet-free at the moment (sad face), but it's an important reminder.
This is such an important post because it's hard to remember everything in an emergency. We had to evacuate the California wildfires with our 130 pound Newfoundland a few years ago, and that is a story in itself. It's a good thing we had 2 cars because she practically needed one for herself!
A great reminder, Cathy. I have my sticker, but haven't put it up. My plan up until now has been "throw them in their carriers and hightail it out." I've been procrastinating on getting supplies and a plan together for the human family members, too. This is a great month to do it and will be checking out the resources. Thanks!
I am so with you on this one. They are fully fledged members of the family! Thank you for getting this message out there Cathy!
Great information, Cathy. Thank you for sharing. So scary to think of what might happen to my furbabies in such an event, but this assuages the worries a tad.
Good to know this, Cathy! I'm going to try to catch this Google hangout.
This is such a good reminder, Cathy. We have a plan for our
pets in the event of any sort of disaster but I am always
happy to learn more.
Great tips on including the pets. I have desert tortoises. I remember during Katrina how there were so many stranded animals on tv that they were showing.
We have a plan for our dogs in case of any disaster but I am always interested in learning more and staying up to date with the latest information.
This is a great reminder!