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May 2006

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Every year there are stories in the news about floods, wildfires and other natural disasters. Those of us with pets have an even bigger responsibility to try to make sure they are properly cared for even in emergency situations. While it's not always possible to protect your pets 100% - some disasters, such as earthquakes, often don't give you enough warning - some initial preparation may make the situation less stressful or traumatic than it otherwise would have been. See you next month.

PET QUOTES

"The greatest pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him, and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself, too." (Samuel Butler) "There is, incidentally, no way of talking about cats that enables one to come off as a sane person." (Dan Greenberg)

PHOTOS FROM PROUD PET PARENTS
"This debonair gent is our JC Mugwumps, Esq., all ready for another summer on the deck. He, by the way, as all well-mannered dogs should do, uses your towels - one for the car, two for home." - Lila J. of Ontario	"Bailee (on the left) is a handsome two year old male red and white Basset. Maggee (on the right) is a beautiful one year old female tri-colour Basset. They are brother and sister (same parents) from different litters. They bring so much joy into our lives." - Lesley Joy M.
Photos from Big Heart Rescue Society
Sweet little Opal, who has now found a forever home through Big Heart Rescue.	This cute photo is of Cayenne, a puppy who was adopted through Big Heart Rescue in January.
ADOPTABLE PET Stella is located in Coquitlam, BC and has waited a very long year for her new family and they have yet to find her. She is a charming girl who will flirt with big boys and can track down a kibble in 30 seconds flat! Stella is a very large girl (90 lbs) who is selective in her choice of animal companions. This sweet girl is still searching for her forever home. For more information about Stella, visit Big Heart Rescue.

NEXT MONTH: PUPPIES, PUPPIES, PUPPIES! Do you have a particularly cute puppy photo - one that you think will melt the hearts of our pet-loving crowd? Send it to us along with a brief caption, your location, and your name, to: newsletter@petfriendly.ca

PACKING FOR EMERGENCIES: DOG DISASTER SUPPLIES

No one ever wants to be put into an emergency situation, but they do happen. Dog disaster supplies don't cost much and only take a few moments to put together. So do your furry pal a favor and start gathering some dog disaster supplies, including: Buy Food. Pack enough to last at least one week for each dog. Make sure it's the same type of food your pet is accustomed to eating so that he doesn't get an upset stomach. If you feed canned food, try to find small cans that are suitable for single feedings only since you may not have access to a refrigerator for leftovers. Store the food in waterproof, airtight containers. Every 2 or 3 months, replace the food with fresh food. Water. When disaster strikes drinking water is sometimes unavailable, and the water that is available is probably not sanitary. Again, pack enough drinking water to last each dog at least one week and store the supply in a cool place. Replace the water every few months. Several bowls, measuring cups, can openers, and spoons. Make sure you have what you need to properly feed your pooch. Travel crate. Dog travel supplies are widely available at pet supply stores. Get a crate that's large enough so that your dog can stand up and lie down comfortably. Many types of crates are available - some are airline approved, others are collapsible for easy portability. Leashes and/or harnesses. Keep extras on hand in case your dog chews through one. Frightened dogs may attempt to run. Harnesses are a good option in this case because it's much harder for a dog to escape from a harness than from a leash. If you have to tie your dog up, make sure you keep an eye on him in case he starts to show signs of stress (in which case he might try to escape). Also ensure you tie him in an area where he cannot fall or slip off something and choke himself. Do not leave your dog outside or unattended for extended periods of time. Aside from the possibility of escape, there are other dangers such as wild animals. Proper identification for each dog. Some form of visible ID such as a collar with license tag and/or a tattoo is a good start. Microchips are available from your veterinarian too. Keep a couple of spare "writeable" tags with you too. If you have to stay elsewhere during the emergency, write your contact information on the tag and attach it to your dog's collar. Always keep your contact information up-to-date. Additional documentation. This includes vaccination records, a recent photo (just in case your pet gets lost - a photo makes ID easier), the name and number of your veterinarian, a record of medications and dosage. Also look up a list of nearby veterinarians and keep a list of their addresses and telephone numbers, just in case your regular vet is unable to assist during the disaster. Medications. Try to keep a couple of weeks worth of prescription medication on hand. In an emergency situation your vet may not be able to re-fill a prescription. A pet first-aid kit. Our furry friends can get hurt too, especially in the noise and confusion of a disaster situation. Cleaning supplies. Pack a supply of "waste bags", paper towels, cleaning disinfectant, and soap. Clean your dog's kennel and dishes regularly to help keep them free from nasty bacteria. A list of places you can stay with your pet in case of emergency. This might just be friends or family, or even a list of nearby hotels or other accommodations. Check their pet policies to ensure they really will allow your pet (if you have a big dog, make sure this won't cause a problem - some hotels only allow small dogs). As soon as you know you wil need a hotel room, call in advance to make reservations. Other people may also be trying to get rooms as well. If you do not currently have dog disaster supplies ready, take a few moments to do it now! It could be the difference between losing your pets or having them come home safe with you.

UPCOMING PET EVENTS

Victoria, British Columbia - May 12/06: Big Heart Rescue Society is holding their first annual Spring Gala Dinner, Dance, and Auction. More info Etobicoke, Ontario - June 10/06: 15th Annual Bruce Harvey Memorial Dog Walk-a-Thon for the Etobicoke Humane Society. West Deane Park on Martingrove Road. More info Winnipeg, Manitoba - June 25/06: 'Paws in Motion' - A walk for animals at Assiniboine Park in support of the Winnipeg Humane Society. More info Edmonton, Alberta - June 25/06: The 14th Annual 'Pets in the Park' event. More info Does your Canadian non-profit organization have an upcoming event? We want to hear about it! Please contact us.

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