Uncle, we say, uncle!
We've been very fortunate at HAWS that we are not in an area that has standing water or flooding issues - thank heavens for higher ground.
Although, a flood in our building right now would be par for the course for our spring so far! Apparently the prevailing wisdom is we've been through enough for the time being. Whew!
We can't miss this opportunity, however, to remind dog and cat owners of a few serious issues that can greatly affect our pets.
HAVE A PLAN
Do you have a disaster plan in place that includes your pets? If and when you may need to evacuate in the time of an emergency, don't forget arrangements for your animal family members. During the Katrina evacuation it became very apparent that there are not many places that will welcome both people AND their pets in an emergency. The best thing you can do is to check into facilities that will welcome your pets, before it is needed. What hotel chains welcome pets? Are there boarding facilities that will accept "drop-offs" without a reservation? What vet care/vaccinations are required for your pet? For helpful hints on planning, check out this link to the Humane Society of the United States' website.
SPEAKING OF VET CARE...
Annual exams and vaccinations are a must for your pets. But, maybe more importantly:
DON'T FORGET HEARTWORM PREVENTATIVE!!!!!
Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitos - and with all of the water pooling around us lately, there is plenty of fertile ground for our state bird to reproduce. Humans aren't the only ones bothered by the bites - if your dog or cat isn't on heartworm preventative and is bitten by a mosquito carrying the disease, it can be fatal. (And it isn't a pleasant experience for them - just ask your vet to see pictures of an animal's heart infested with heartworm. You can visit Wikipedia for some basic starter info - but don't stop here, go to your vet for the best, up-to-date info!)
Don't forget, too, that even if your cat is always inside the house, that isn't a guarantee against mosquito bites. Somehow those pests manage to find their way in. Unfortunately!
By the way - we're having a party! Stop by the HAWS shelter at 701 Northview Road, Waukesha this Wednesday, June 11th between 5-7:00pm and join us as we thank EVERYONE for helping us through our recent dog illness. There will be food, fun, and some special guests - don't miss it!
