A Different Peace of Mind

SPCA International’s initiative Operation Baghdad Pups was created after Sgt. Watson wrote a compelling e-mail about a befriended pup named Charlie. This program coordinates clearance and transport for animals that bond with U.S. service members during deployment in the Middle East. SPCA International website states that the program “does more than save the lives of these animals; it also brings comfort and peace of mind to our U.S. solders serving overseas and helps them cope when they return home.”

Back home, local shelters often face challenging budgets, stretching donations to the limit. Impacted by Superstorm Sandy, shelters struggled with power outages, flooding, damaged property, lack of medication for sick animals, and overcrowding. SPCA International provided 10 Emergency Grants to shelters in need, like Pet-I-Care to help animals through the hurricane aftermath.

Are you prepared to evacuate your animals if an emergency strikes? SPCA International says there are two critical elements to consider regarding your animals:

1. How to safely evacuate all your animals should you have to leave your home
2. Where your animals will stay temporarily if you are unable to return to your home

While you may have considered the recommendations for disaster preparedness offered by the American Red Cross, planning for companion animals is often overlooked. Give yourself peace of mind and visit the SPCA International website for tips on disaster planning for your animals and how to prepare a Grab and Go Disaster Kit for your cat, dog, bird, reptile, pocket pets, and fish.