When Disaster Strikes

Friends did we have an exciting day at our house last Wednesday. It started out nice and normal. My Mom and I were playing with my toys as we watched the weather report because bad storms were predicted. She had been working very hard all day preparing for any bad weather that the remains of Hurricane Ida would bring. Then it started to rain and rain and rain. All of a sudden she called me and we ran up to our second floor. I thought she wanted me to chase her - but NO! It was because water was pouring into our house. My toys! My bed! All were floating in water.

I could tell that my Mom was scared so I went into my therapy dog mode. We weathered out the storm together and are safe but we want to share some of the lessons that we learned.

Be sure you have a way to secure your pets. My Mom had a crate and my collar and leash available at all times. To be honest she never let me out of her sight. You have to remember that while we may pretend to be brave, we are scared too and could easily make a run for it. And don’t forget to check our special hiding places - we all have them - if you can not find us. If you have to evacuate with us, make sure there is a way to secure us in the car. That can be with a seat belt, crate or carrier. Make sure we have on some form of identification. Me - I am microchipped but my collar also has tags.

Have a plan and an Emergency to Go Kit for us, just like you have for yourself. It should include vet records, food, water, bowls, medication and maybe a toy or two for comfort. Identify beforehand which shelters will accept pets. Or if you plan on staying at a hotel or with a friend or relative be sure pets are welcome.

Keep in mind that we pets are creatures of habit and we become stressed out when we do not have our routine. Mom made me eat and drink on the second floor for a few days and I did not like it. But the first thing she did the next day was to wash and disinfect my toys and beds. She has her priorities and thank goodness they are the same as mine.

Now the next few days after the storm we had LOTS of people helping us. I was mad at first because I had to stay in my crate. Mom said it was because doors were wide open and people were in and out of my yard. But at the end of the day they all played with me so I was happy.

My friends I hope this does not ever happen to you. But just in case be sure your human sees this article so everyone can be safe.