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August 29th marks the fourth anniversary of the Hurricane Katrina tragedy. In our
many years of animal rescue, Pasado’s Safe Haven has seen the tragic consequences for pets caught up in the wake of natural disasters. From the Pacific Northwest floods to the havoc of Hurricane Katrina, families have been torn apart by forces that we cannot predict or control.
Pasado’s was at the forefront of the rescue efforts in Louisiana. PasadoRescue saved countless lives and reunited dogs and cats with their families
(click here to read about the history). We want to remember the lives lost, the family members who were sadly left behind, the heart-wrenching stories of reunited animals, and the generous spirits of staff, volunteers, and animal lovers. Their dedication and hard work made all the difference during those dark days.
Natural disasters can happen at any time. Some
give warning signs like a storm before a flood, or strong winds before a hurricane,
others like earthquakes can give no warning at
all. The thing to remember is once a disaster strikes, the time to prepare is gone.
So what can we do?
In Memory of the Lives Lost Due to this Tragedy
- Pasado's recommends the following tips:
- Have an emergency kit prepared, including medications and a first aid kit, medical records, photos for proof of ownership, leashes, collars, and extra food and water. Have at least 2 weeks’ worth of emergency rations in your kit. Include your vet's contact information and an authorization to provide medical treatment for your pets.
- Have a pet carrier at the ready, with comfort items in the carrier.
- Have options for where your pet can go in an emergency: a shelter, a friend or relative's house, a pet-friendly hotel, boarding facility or a veterinary clinic that also provides boarding services.
- Microchip your pets for easy identification. This is priceless in the event of
any separation.
- Keep your pets' vaccinations current to limit the chance of contracting a disease.
- Include your pets in your family’s emergency preparedness plans. They’ll be just as scared as you – and even more confused.
- Don't forget about your livestock. Washington State’s 2007 and 2008 floods were stark reminders of how fragile life is. Post emergency contact information in your barn or on your fence. Be sure to include your contact numbers, including your veterinarian.
- Have transportation available to move your livestock. Familiarize yourself with neighbors in the area who would be willing to board your animals in an emergency.
- Create an evacuation plan with friends, family, and neighbors and have an emergency kit with leads, halters, first aid kits, and extra food and water.
- Take note of prior disasters – we can never plan for the unexpected, but we can be prepared.
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What can you do to help? PasadoRescue is a costly but important part of Pasado's Safe Haven. We provide life-saving services and travel to where the need is greatest. Your donation can ensure that PasadoRescue continues to be on the forefront of rescue efforts - saving lives and making a difference.
A donation today can save a life down the
way.
(don't forget
to ask your employer
to match your donation)
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