Preparing for a Hurricane

My retired service dog, Clarence, depends on me for his every need.  All our wonderful pets depend on our care giving and protection, especially when we may be facing a bad storm or disaster of any kind.

Our #pets depend on us for their well being and survival; and during times of potential emergencies or disasters, we need to be especially diligent and prepared.  Making plans and taking measures ahead of the threat is essential and will help keep our pets #safe.  Last minute decisions create the possibility of us be unprepared to do what is best for our pets and ourselves. 

I read in a posting from the ASPCA that "if it isn't safe for us, then it isn't safe for our pets."  It went on to say that if we are not going to stay because it is too risky or unsafe for us [humans] to do so, then we must NOT leave our beloved pets behind either. 

The ASPCA also gives us some steps that we are able to take BEFORE the impending disaster.

First, they recommend that we have a sticker or notice on our front door that notifies rescue workers that we have pets.  We need to list how many pets and what type(s) of pets we have.  If we do leave or evacuate prior to their arrival, we need to mark across it "Evacuated."  This lets the emergency workers know that they do not need to look for them.

Second, we need to know where we will seek a "safe haven" in our homes (safe room, high spots, etc.) and/or at facilities that accept pets.  This is very important because not all places allow us to bring our pets with us.  The bottom line -  "DO NOT LEAVE OUR PETS BEHIND."  Plan ahead.  Know where we ae going.

Third, if we work or may be away from our home when the storm hits, we need to have someone who is willing to go and get our pets.  They need to have a key, access into our home, knowledge about our pets, and the willingness to be responsible for our pets while we are not present.  This is also important in the event that we are injured or unable to care for our furry family members in critical situations.

Fourth, put together a supply bag that prepares us for the worse.  Include extra collars, extra leashes, tags (get our pets microchipped ahead of time for better identification and re-unification), food for a week, water, medications, first aid kit, flashlight, chew or comfort toys, and information about our veterinarian and any medical conditions. 

Fifth, install the ASPCA app on our mobile devices.  This can provide important information throughout the crisis or emergency situation.

It is very important to bring our pets inside as soon as we are aware that the critical event is going to occur.  Earlier is better than later.  We don't want them running or wandering off when becoming scared.

As I begin planning for the possibility of the hurricane that is coming up the coastline and hitting our state, I am reminded of the Girl Scout motto that I learned many years ago as a youngster -  "Be prepared!"  Our families which include our loving pets depend on us.  Please stay safe.

Hogan's Hope - the Book

October is here and with it brings memories of the day we were able to #adopt #Hogan into our family and bring him from the humane society to his #forever home.  He was so thin and timid and my heart ached with the knowledge that he must have been hungry much too often.   As he and I rode together he watched every passing car and truck with great interest and curiosity.  Being a rainy day his head moved back and forth in rhythm with the windshield wipers; and I remember that it brought a big smile to my face.  From time to time a large truck would pass by sending a pounding spray of water against the passenger's side window causing him to duck down into the seat.  I reached over to gently reassure him and wondered how many times he had traveled in a car.

As work on his book, Hogan's Hope, continues I am often asked why do I want to write and publish his story.  The response seems quite evident to me but I must keep in mind that many people do not know the obstacles that a #deaf #dog encounters.  I want people to know that when deaf dogs are often destroyed, mistreated, or abandoned, Hogan’s Hope tells the tale of a legendary deaf canine hero who went from hardship to success.  He went from abandonment to a life of being accepted, believed in, and loved so very much.   I also want folks to realize that, no matter what challenge, handicap, or disability we face, there is always hope.  There is always the real possibility of our dreams coming true and #Hogan provides great inspiration.  And, perhaps most importantly, there is always the chance for genuine love and acceptance.

“'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11