Woulda - Coulda - Shoulda

It’s always hard when a pet dies in a house fire. It’s even more distressing when a simple notice at the entry doors would help emergency responders know how many pets are in the home. Just this past week, the fire department saved a dog named Mea from possibly drowning at the White Sands Dog Park. The rescue was successful. Then, the fire department also attempted to rescue a cat from a tree. Not sure how that one ended.

When emergency responders are called to our home, why not make it as easy as possible in a very difficult situation. Place a notice at entry points to provide the fire department with knowledge of pets in the home. It isn’t difficult and doesn’t even require putting out much cash.

In doing some research, I looked for pre-made notices. At one time, they were available in pet catalogs. Not so anymore. In a number of catalogs I checked, not one pre-made sign was found. So, make your own. Use your computer or best printing.

Emergency Responders.

# of pets in the house

List species

Please rescue.

Mount on several layers of cardstock or cardboard. This will give the notice stability. Then, have it laminated or use Press and Seal cling wrap found in the aluminum foil, wax paper, cling wrap isle of most grocery stores. Works like a charm. Poster Mounting tabs are also available in many stores. Use these handy tabs to mount notice at entry points. Placing the notice on the inside of the glass might help it survive the elements. If the sign gets destroyed or the number of pets changes, make a new one.

Go make your signs. Don’t wish you would have, could have, or should have when it’s too late. Do it now.

Be responsible. Have your pets spayed or neutered.

"Shirley Taggart is an animal advocate. She is committed to helping animals and the people who care about them." shirleysblog2011@yahoo.com