Poem: Losing Maggie

She never asked for muchMaybe a kind heart and an occasional touchShe didn’t lick or jump the way others doShe knew the love for her just grewShe didn’t care about cookies or about foodShe only cared if I was in a good moodShe always was just steps awayBut never out of sight or gone astrayShe […]

Coping with Loss: Euthanasia vs. Sudden Death or Illness

Every pet, illness and situation is different. There is no single rule that can be followed for when the time comes for you to say goodbye to your beloved pet. When possible, try to get all the facts from your veterinarian on the specific medical conditions that your loved one may face so that you are doing what […]

Finding Ways to Cope

Following the loss of a pet, sorrow and grief are normal and natural responses. It’s important to realize the process of healing is ongoing and takes each individual a different amount of time. Here are some ideas that may help you along the way. Reach out to others who have lost pets too. Chances are […]

Safety Tips for Evacuating a Horse

Evacuating a horse can be a lot more challenging then getting a dog or cat to safety.  Unfortunately, many people who own horses do not have a horse trailer, which can be a serious problem when in the midst of a disaster.  If you don’t have a horse trailer, do some research ahead of time […]

Medical Concerns for Horses During a Disaster

These are some of the common medical problems to look for in a horse during a disaster: Cuts and abrasions Abscesses Burns Respiratory problems that can turn into pneumonia (especially in fires) Lameness Eye Injuries Nails or other sharp debris in hooves Foot infection from standing in water or mud for extended periods of time […]

For Horses: Grab-and-Go Disaster Kit

Now is the time to assemble a Grab-and-Go Kit for your horse. Trying to gather all these items when you have little time to evacuate during a disaster can endanger your life and the life of your horse.  1. Always transport your horse in a secure horse trailer or walk to a safe location using a […]

Returning Home After a Disaster

The days or weeks after a disaster strikes can be emotionally draining and physically challenging.  A lack of sleep will impair your decisions and your ability to think smart.  When it comes time for you and your animals to return home it’s important to remember to take the following precautions.  Be sure you are prepared […]

One-Two-Three-Cheese

Who does not have a cell phone these days?  The answer is, probably very few people.  For this reason, there is no excuse for not taking current photos of your companion animals as part of your disaster preparedness efforts, since most phones now have built in cameras.  Having easy access to these photos, should your […]