Sept. 13 Pet Emergency Preparedness meeting
The Happy Tails Dog Club focused its Sept. 13 meeting on a topic that affects every pet owner—emergency preparedness. Members were asked to consider important questions: What happens to your pet if you’re in an accident and can’t get home? Do you have a plan in place? Who can you call for help?
Board members led the program, each covering a different aspect of readiness. Pet Parent Emergency was discussed by Janet Pauley who emphasized the value of carrying a card taped to your driver’s license stating that you have a pet at home. Donna Steibel explained how to keep pets safe during emergencies, while Lorraine Wilson demonstrated preparedness kits tailored for both dogs and cats. Teresa McGill addressed the sensitive issue of planning for pets in the event of an owner’s death, and Char Neimi closed the program with tips on traveling safely with pets.
More than 25 members attended, making the session a success. Organizers noted that preparation can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of pets during emergencies or worst-case scenarios when owners are unable to provide care.
Looking ahead, Ranch Hands Rescue will be our guest speakers for the Oct. 11 meeting. Ranch Hands Rescue farm animal sanctuary provides rehabilitation and a safe haven for horses and livestock suffering from the worst cases of abuse and neglect. Rescued farm animals are given love and purpose in a peaceful, happy environment and are integrated into our Equine and Animal Assisted Counseling program to support people recovering from trauma. Their current livestock includes horses, cows, llamas, alpacas, pigs, goats, sheep, and donkeys. They will consider any farm animals that need their care. While they occasionally provide sanctuary for special needs dogs and cats, they do not typically take in family pets.
On Saturday, Nov. 8, the annual Winter Holiday Pet Photo mini sessions will be held in Room 103 of the CATC building. This year a beautiful outdoor winter scene with pine trees will be the background. Photos with Santa (Paul Vicalvi, a former Robson Ranch resident) will be available from 9:30 a.m. to noon, followed by winter-themed photos from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m. Sessions cost $20 for members and $30 for non-members, covering up to two subjects—pets or people. Registration details are available on the club’s website www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.
Happy Tails Dog Club meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 103 of the CATC building. Membership is open to all dog lovers, with annual dues of $10 per household. For more information, visit www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.