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August 20, 2008 When streets and homes in the City of Rensselaer flooded, some residents were forced to evacuate their homes and find temporary housing. Because the majority of people have pets, the animals had to be evacuated as well. "Luckily, we are not aware of any pets that were left behind in the flooding," said Brad Shear, Executive Director of the Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society. "We help prepare people for evacuating with their pets when there is an emergency. There are many things you can do to be prepared, but the most important advice I can give is to take your pets with you when you leave," Shear continued. The Humane Society is currently housing a dog and two cats that were evacuated from a Rensselaer home because they had nowhere else to go. Because emergency shelters for people will not take pets, evacuees must typically depend on friends and family to keep their pets or pay for boarding until they can get back into their homes. Stated Shear, "Without the Humane Society, people would end up making a choice between living on the street with their pets or having to give up their four-legged family members." Shear also said several Rensselaer residents have contacted the City because they have pets in need of veterinary care but have no money to pay for their pets' care. The Humane Society is helping to coordinate care for affected animals. East Greenbush Animal Hospital has volunteered to see animals referred to them by the City. "We are trying to find additional veterinarians in the community who will see the pets for evacuees at little or no cost," Shear said. "Many of these people have just lost everything and are concerned about the trauma their pets have been through. Some of the animals are showing signs of illness and are in immediate need of care. Thankfully, some generous veterinarians are stepping forward to help." The City of Rensselaer is collecting a list of residents affected and is coordinating with the Humane Society to try to find care for the animals in need. Rensselaer residents can call Mary Cramer at the City of Rensselaer Water Department, (518) 462-6466. Unfortunately, there is no government funding to assist pets affected by disaster. Anyone wishing to donate to the Humane Society's disaster relief fund for affected Rensselaer animals or victims of future disasters can donate online, call (518) 434-8128, or mail donations to 3 Oakland Avenue, Menands, NY 12204. To learn more about preparing for a disaster with your pet, see www.empiresart.com. |