MPUMALANGA — Bonginkosi Zwelibanzi Manana(33) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years imprisonment by Standerton Regional Court on Friday, 08 December 2023 for dealing in drugs.
The accused sentencing came after he was arrested by Ermelo and Standerton K9 unit members on 23 January 2023. Members were on duty when receiving information regarding a suspicious motor vehicle, a Nissan Navara bakkie, that was traveling on the R35 road between Morgenzon and Amersfort, transporting cannabis. The K9 members followed up on the information.
Whilst driving towards Amersfort, a vehicle matching the description was spotted. Members switched on emergency lights and tried to stop the vehicle. While trying to flee, the suspects vehicle overturned, and two male accupants came out with slight injuries. K9 members introduced themselves and interviewed the driver who introduced himself as Saluleko Samora Dladla from Swaziland.
He was asked about the bags that were found in the vehicle wrapped with brown tape. The driver informed them that it was dagga from Swaziland. Both accused were then arrested, and dagga to the estimated value of R450 000.00 was confiscated.
The case was then transferred to the Hawks Secunda based Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit for further investigation.
Both accused, Saluleko Samora Dladla(43) and Bonginkosi Zwelibanzi Manana(33), appeared before Morgenzon Magistrate Court on several occassions and the matter was transferred to Standerton Regional Court.
On Friday 08 December 2023, Manana pleaded guilty, and he was sentenced to three years imprisonment, which is wholly suspended for five years, and he was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Charges against Saluleko Samora Dladla were withdrawn.
MANY ARE EXCITED ABOUT THE FESTIVITIES AROUND THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS, BUT FOR SOME, AFTER PET LOSS, IT IS A TIME THAT THEY DREAD.
With their shorter lifespans, pet loss is inevitable, and saying goodbye is something every pet lover faces eventually. Saying goodbye is the hardest part of our relationships with our pets. As someone mentioned in a pet grief group, you joined a club you never wanted to be part of. Regardless of the type of pet, furry, finned, or scaled, no matter the species, we love them with all of our hearts and feel their loss as strongly as we’d feel the loss of a human family member or friend.
Last year I did an article on pet loss and the grief that accompanies it, shortly after a loss. When I looked back on many of the published posts in this series, the grief article had some of the highest views, which means that so many experience this, and since society stigmatization of loss, many suffer alone.
In my first article, I talked about grief, the stages of grief, the comorbidities of grief, a visualization exercise that helped me, pet loss resources, getting a new pet, and preparing for the Rainbow Bridge decision. This week I want to share some of what I learned about grief in the last year and next week we will look at some coping strategies and remembering your pets.
Grief is a universal emotion and in an excerpt from Belonging: Remembering Ourselves Home, Toko-pa Turner sums it up well:
“Grief is the response to a broken bond of belonging. Whether through the loss of a loved one, a way of life, or a cherished community, grief is the reaction to being torn from what you love. But while grief may look like an expression of pain that serves no purpose, it is actually the soul’s acknowledgment of what we value. Yet in our culture, we are deeply unskilled with grief. We hold it at a distance as best we can, both in ourselves and in each other, treating it as, Joanna Macy says, like “an enemy of cheerfulness.” There is unspoken shame associated with grief. It is sanctioned in very few places, in small doses, for exceptional occasions. Grief is the expression of healing in motion. Because what remains hidden for too long doesn’t change. It is calcified in place, often sealed by shame, left untouched and forgotten by time. But when it can finally come into the open to be seen, it is exposed to new conditions and it begins to move. It rises on a salty geyser of tears, sometimes sung to the surface by a terrific moan, streaming down our cheeks until it moistens the soil where we stand, preparing us for new growth.”
Carol Bryant writes, “It’s an odd thing, grief. We fear it, dismiss it, try and avoid it, occasionally have brushes with it, and most often times, without warning, it invites itself into our lives. No welcome mat but it comes nonetheless.”
She goes on using the metaphor of grief as a suitcase: “I view my grief as a suitcase. Some days it’s a cosmetics bag full and others it’s Samsonite gorilla-sized. Sometimes I feel like I’m on a carousel in the airport waiting for the form my grief will take. Do I wait days or weeks before I tear up and ache so very much or is today a carry-on kind of day where I just take it with me? In any event, I know my luggage always arrives and never gets lost. If you are grieving the death of a beloved pet, please understand you are forever changed. I’ve learned to live with my grief and carry it with me as an invisible suitcase.”
I agree that society is unskilled in dealing with grief, more so when the loss involves an animal. We certainly don’t talk or think about it enough and maybe that is because it scares us.
Nancy Gordon, a loss and transformational grief specialist, shares this: “Unhealed grief puts a lock on your heart. It’s so important for people to realize that the key to unlocking your heart is to face the guilt and grief. Now, facing it is often very, very hard for people. Grief is meant to be shared. It’s meant to be expressed in positive, healing ways rather than stuffing it.”
Pet loss – Image by Bark & Whiskers
WHY DOES PET LOSS HURT?
There may be many reasons but some of the major reasons are certainly because animals’ love is so unconditional, non-judgemental, and accepting. They have seen you at your best and your worst. Sometimes these pets have helped us through major life-changing events like losing someone, illness, a new job or new school, divorce, etc. Grief is a sign you were loved and loved deeply. The grief is real because the emotions you experienced with your pet were real. The loss is valid because you didn’t lose a thing you lost someone close and special to you.
During my grief journey, I watched a TEDx talk by an emergency vet Dr. Sarah Hoggan who shared about the comorbidities of grief and how these comorbidities can complicate grief. Having to make the PTS decision or losing an animal due to a preventable accident are just two of them. My first article covered more on this.
In the first article, I touched on the stages of grief which starts with anticipatory grief. This is a grief you experience before the actual loss. Then there is denial, guilt/anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.Because grief is such an individual process, not everyone may experience all the stages and it might also not be in this particular order, however, our first response to the loss is usually denial, and the last acceptance.
THE SIXTH STAGE OF GRIEF
David Kessler wrote a book in which he refers to the sixth stage of grief: Finding meaning again. In his book, Kessler gives readers a roadmap to remembering those who have died with more love than pain; he shows us how to move forward in a way that honors our loved ones. Adoption can be part of this. Once you reach the stage of acceptance and you are back in a positive place, the best tribute you can pay to a pet that has passed is to give another one a second chance by adopting from a reputable rescue organization.
Please don’t get a new pet when you are still going through the grieving stages because you will bring the new pet into a weak and sad energy, which is not fair to them and never to “replace” the other one.
In an article by Carol Bryant titled: Anatomy of a Grieving Dog Mom she writes: “I never thought I would ever feel complete again. The logical part of me knows we all will die someday. The unprepared part of me wasn’t ready, couldn’t have prepared, and went into a downward spiral of pain as a grieving dog mom. There’s a hole in my heart where it used to be whole.”
That is exactly how I feel and probably, you reading this too. Last week we adopted a new boy from our local SPCA. It was not a quick decision and never should be, but the time was right for me now. Although this new addition will not ever replace the others, my heart feels whole again. Someone said that grief is love that is looking for a home…………this speaks deeply to me.
Pet loss – Image by Dr. Karen Becker
Also, read why animals should not be given as gifts.
REMEMBER THIS ABOUT GRIEF
Rainbow Bridge Raina and others share the following to keep in mind when you are grieving.
You are not grieving too long, but your journey will likely take longer than you think.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve as long as you don’t hurt yourself.
Your journey will look different because grief is personal.
Be kind to yourself because grief is messy.
Others won’t understand, you don’t need their permission to grieve.
People will say wrong things to help you feel better.
It may feel that your world stopped in this grief. We will all experience a loss that will get us stuck, but you won’t be stuck forever.
Grief can be a liar and irrational.
We live in a society where the world doesn’t even stop for death. If your thoughts wander or you forget about your pet for a moment, that is ok.
You are not alone.
It does get better but it takes time as grief changes and morphs. It becomes lighter and you will survive and feel joy again.
Don’t be afraid to reach out for support. There are professional counsellors for those who have lost pets.
PREPARING FOR THE DECISION
In the first article, I talked about preparing for this dreadful decision and there are some practical resources to help you make this decision. What I want to highlight here is that you should never wait too long to make that decision, no matter how hard it is. It is the last gift you can give your beloved animal. Don’t prolong your pet’s suffering because of your or your child’s emotions. That is not fair to the animal who is suffering and please remain by their side in the moment. I can assure you the guilt of waiting too long or letting them die at home will be harder than when you do it “too” early. I see it clearly in the grief groups but also with our experiences. I know too many people who waited too long, usually because they didn’t want the responsiblity of this big decision.
Remember to never let the animal suffer because you do not have the funds to euthanize them. Contact your local SPCA or animal rescue as there are ways they can help with this or talk to your veterinarian. Please be kind to those in animal welfare because we cry for other people’s pets too and many in the trenches experience this loss frequently.
My heart goes out to every person who has to make a euthanasia (PTS) decision or who has lost their beloved fur family members. The reality is as Nick Cave describes it: “……if we love, we grieve, that’s the deal, that’s the pact. Grief is a terrible reminder about the depth of our love, and like love, grief is non-negotiable.” To my fellow travellers on the road of grief, you, the survivor of this death, now embark on a journey of grief and healing. Here is a beautiful video of the reunion at the Rainbow Bridge.
Next week we will continue this topic and look at coping with the loss, especially for children, how to help our other pets cope, and ways to remember your pet.
“We would like to make a difference in the communities that we operate in” said Randel Rademann, Evander General Manager, in his opening remarks “and what a better place to start with than our youth”.
Evander Gold Mining (Pty)Ltd, as part of their pledge to make a difference in their communities, decided to hand over Science and Computer Laboratories to Thistle Grove Combined School and Thomas Nhlabathi Secondary School.
The ceremony was held at Thistle Grove Combined School on 16 November. The handover also forms part of their Social Labour Plan.
Cobus Loots, Pan African Resources CEO spoke about the role and stability that mining had achieved in the past 150 years.
“At the beginning of 2018, we were losing a lot of money,” said Cobus, “So much so that we had to retrench over 2000 people.”
“This gave us an opportunity to reset things and I am very glad to say that we are now one of the lowest “cost to produce” of gold in Africa. ”Under our feet is one of the biggest undeveloped Gold resources in the world, 34m Ounces!”
“We are going to be here for a long time still” continued Cobus, “and we will continue to invest in our communities.”
In his keynote address, Mpumalanga District Director, Mr P.P. Magagula said “We are not going anywhere if we don’t promote maths, science and technology.”
There were also items by some learners that the crowd enjoyed a lot.
PETS SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN AS GIFTS OR BE A SURPRISE
The holiday season often tempts well-meaning individuals to gift animals—puppies for Christmas, bunnies for Easter, or kittens for birthdays. However, this seemingly heartwarming gesture can have serious consequences for both the animals and their unsuspecting recipients. In this article we will explore the reasons behind this cautionary stance and delve into the essential considerations for responsible pet ownership.
WHY YOU SHOULD NOT GIVE ANIMALS AS GIFTS
Whether acquired for personal satisfaction or intended as a surprise for a loved one, purchasing or taking animals on a whim is a risky endeavor. Here’s why:
Animals Are Sentient Beings, Not Commodities: Animals should never be treated as mere commodities or impulse buys. They are sentient beings with emotions and needs, and gifting them sends the wrong message, perpetuating the idea that they are disposable toys.
Pets Are Long-Term Commitments: Animals typically live 10-20 years or more for some species, requiring a substantial commitment of time, effort, and resources. Impulse purchases can lead to neglect or abandonment when the reality of this commitment sets in.
Shelter Overcrowding: Studies indicate that more than 10% of animals given as gifts end up in shelters shortly thereafter. In an already overwhelmed animal welfare system, this percentage adds strain, making it crucial to avoid unnecessary contributions to shelter overcrowding.
Children’s Interest and Responsibility: Children’s fleeting attention spans often align better with stuffed toys than living beings. The responsibilities of caring for a pet, such as daily exercise and attention, can be overlooked or underestimated.
Before deciding to gift an animal, it’s imperative to consider various factors to ensure the well-being of both the recipient and the pet:
Interest: Has the person expressed genuine interest in owning a pet?
Cost & Resources: Is the recipient financially stable and willing to commit to the financial responsibilities of pet ownership, including food, supplies, and veterinary care?
Time & Energy: Does the recipient have the time and energy to dedicate to daily care, interaction, and play? Consider their activity level and how often they are at home.
Space: Evaluate the living environment to ensure it is suitable for the specific needs of the animal. Check for any restrictions on pets.
The Future: Consider future plans, such as potential relocations, family expansions, or changes in financial situations.
Compatibility: Assess the recipient’s lifestyle and choose a pet that aligns with their needs and capabilities, especially energy-levels.
Age and Health: Ensure that the chosen pet is appropriate for the recipient’s age and that there are no health conditions that may conflict with pet care.
Other Pets: Consider whether the new animal will get along with existing pets in the household.
HOW TO POLITELY DECLINE OR HANDLE AN UNWANTED PET GIFT
Politely declining or addressing an unwanted pet gift is crucial to avoid unintended consequences for the animal. Here’s how:
Express Gratitude: Thank the giver sincerely for their thoughtful gesture.
Politely Decline: Clearly communicate that you are not ready for the responsibility of pet ownership at this time.
Responsible Surrender: As a last resort, if the giver insists, you can take the pet and responsibly surrender it to a shelter that can find a suitable home.
The decision to gift an animal should not be taken lightly. The life of an innocent being is at stake, and your responsibility as a potential guardian is paramount. Remember, adopting from reputable organizations reduces the strain on shelters and contributes to responsible pet ownership.
THINK TWICE BEFORE GIFTING A PET
In conclusion, before presenting a pet as a gift, carefully weigh the implications and responsibilities involved. If you are not prepared to be a responsible pet owner or if the recipient is not ready for the commitment, it’s best to reconsider and not gift the animal. The joy of pet ownership should come from a well-thought-out decision, ensuring a happy and healthy life for both the pet and its owner.
Next week, we will look at pet loss and the grief that accompanies it.
TRUCK DRIVER WHO ALLEGEDLY HIJACKED AND KIDNAPPED HIMSELF REMANDED IN CUSTODY
The truck driver who allegedly faked his hijacking and kidnapping in Breyten last month, October 2023 appeared in Ermelo Magistrate’s Court today Monday 27 November 2023.
The suspect Nkosana Glen Mathebula (37) was remanded in custody following further investigation.
Mathebula allegedly opened a case of hijacking and further alleged that his hijackers forced him to the company depot to refill his hijacked truck.
A thorough investigation was launched whereby it transpired that the hijacking was fake.
He was arrested in the early hours of Friday morning 24 November 2023 for perjury, trespassing, theft of diesel and defeating the ends of justice.
He made his first appearance today before Ermelo Magistrate’s Court where he was remanded in custody and his case postponed to Friday 01 December 2023 for further investigation.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela applauded the team of investigators who cracked the case. “Community members are urged not to report false cases as police will redirect resources of the state to the wrong place instead of assisting those who are really in need of services,” warned the General.
Sasol Secunda invites you to a two-day Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Sustainability Summit which is focused on unpacking opportunities for small businesses.
This two-day summit is a platform to equip small business owners in the Mpumalanga region with information that will widen access to Sasol’s supply chain opportunities. Information will be shared on how to adhere to Sasol’s governance and processes in the procurement of goods and services.
You are invited to attend the summit as follows:
Kindly indicate your attendance by close of business on Monday, 27 November.
A little baby girl was saved by her voice when she cried inside a maize meal bag which was dumped on the railway line at Belfast on Thursday 16 November 2023.
Security personnel were patrolling the railway line in Dalmanuta, Belfast when they heard a baby crying.
The security personnel’s attention was drawn to the infant’s voice. On investigation, the baby girl was found inside the maize meal bag.
Police and paramedics were summoned to the scene where the child was stabilised and referred to the medical facility for further attention.
Police call anyone who might assist in locating the baby girl’s mother to please contact Detective Constable Tinyiko Khoza on 082 469 1918 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111, alternatively, information can be sent via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated confidentially.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela condemned the act of child neglect especially when the country is about to honour the 16 days of actvism against women and children abuse and fermicide.
Local brewing company, Lake Umuzi Brewing Co. entered the South African National Beer Trophy (SANBT) and was awarded a silver medal.
Lake Umuzi Brewing Co has grown from humble beginnings at Lake Umuzi to producing award-winning beers. Congratulations to Koos and Wimpie for the outstanding results.
Thursday, 16 November, the beer industry gathered in Cape Town for a celebration of the best beers produced in South Africa. The South African National Beer Trophy (SANBT) has been an important event on the beer calendar since it was first awarded in 2015. In partnership with the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), the awards recognise local excellence in the art of brewing. BASA represents Heineken South Africa, South African Breweries, the Craft Brewers Association of South Africa and United National Breweries.
When the SANBT started in 2015, only 65 beers were entered. This year the judges had to choose from over 180 entries. “The quality of beer in South Africa has been drastically improving,” said JV Ridon, SANBT head organiser.
The overall champion was 1000 Hills Brewing Company’s “The Foreign Exchange Student” (“The FES”), a Belgian ale described by the brewers as “a strong and dark brew, with a hint of caramel and toffee, mildly bittered with Perle and Fuggles hops”.
The SANBT features a list of categories. Each category was evaluated based on the BJCP Style Guidelines, assessing factors such as aroma, appearance, flavour, mouthfeel, and overall impression. The category winners were as follows:
Best Light Beer: Jack Black Brewing Company’s “Brewers Lager”
Best Dark Beer: The Franschhoek Beer Company’s “The Stout”
Best Speciality Beer: 1000 Hills Brewing Company’s “The FES”
Best Hoppy Beer: Cape Brewing Company’s “CBC Pale Ale”
Best Red and Amber Beer: Richmond Hill Brewing Company’s “Two Rand Man Irish Red Ale”
BASA also sponsored two categories for Best No-Alcohol Beer (<0.5% ABV) and for Best Low-Alcohol Beer (< 3.9% ABV). The winners were:
Best Low Alcohol Beer: Darling Brew’s “Light Speed”
Best No Alcohol Beer: Devil’s Peak Brewing Company’s “Devil’s Peak Hero”
The following beers were awarded gold medals:
Hazeldean Brewing Co. – “Rasputin”
Afro Caribbean Brewing Co. – “New Zealand 2”
SAB – “Castle Milk Stout”
Stellenbrau – “Craven Lager”
1000 Hills Brewing Co. – “The FES”
The Franschhoek Beer Co – “The Stout”
The Franschhoek Beer Co. – “La Saison”
Darling Brew – “Light Speed”
Cederberg Brewery – “Cederberg Original Lager”
Cape Brewing Co. – “CBC Pale Ale”
Richmond Hill Brewing Company – “Two Rand Man Irish Red Ale”
Sabie Brewing Co. – “Long Tom Lager-Munich Dunkel”
Sabie Brewing Co. – “Shangaan Stout”
Hoghouse Brewing Co. – “Hoglite Light Kolsch”
SAB – “Castle Double Malt”
SAB – “Castle Lager”
SAB – “Hansa Pilsner”
The Franschhoek Beer Co – “Weissbier no 5”
The Franschhoek Beer Co. – “Liberty APA”
Bomb Squad – “Bomb Squad”
That Brewing Co. “That Black”
That Brewing Co. – “El Juicy”
That Brewing Co. – “That APA”
St Francis Brewing Co. – “Beach Blonde Lager”
Kings Craft Brewing Co. – “Monksbrew Dunkel”
Noon Gun Brewery – “Smooth Bore Lager”
Cederberg Brewery – “Cederberg Pale Ale”
Jack Black Brewing Co. – “Skeleton Coast IPA”
Lake Umuzi Brewing Co. – “Village Weiss”
Devils Peak Beer Co. – “Devils Peak Hero Non-Alc”
Newlands Spring Brewing Co. – “Jacobs Pale Ale”
Newlands Spring Brewing Co. – “Tribute Lager”
Ridon highlighted that the acknowledged beers truly came from across the entire country – from Secunda to Paarl, from Pietermaritzburg to Johannesburg. “We are always happy to offer a platform to the remarkable brewers of South Africa. There are so many new beers. It shows diversity. And they are beers with identity.”
Ridon also mentioned the resilience of craft brewers. “We saw that during the lockdown we were all in the same boat,” he said, referencing the devastating economic impact of the Covid-19 alcohol bans from which most craft brewers are now bouncing back.
Patricia Pillay, the CEO of BASA, congratulated the winners. “We applaud all the winners for their skill, passion and their dedication to their craft. We encourage them to continue being part of the rich beer heritage and tradition that exists in South Africa – from the days of traditional brewing in the form of umqombothi to microbrewing. Along with big beer players, the beer industry supports 1 in every 66 jobs in one way or another. BASA recognises that with the current economy and various legislative limitations that impact beer as a category, it’s not always easy to trade, but we acknowledge the brewers’ ability to always be innovative. The world-class no alcohol and low alcohol beers that the brewers produce are amazing and it was a privilege for BASA to be able to sponsor the prizes for these categories for the second year. BASA takes its responsibility to promote moderate and considered drinking very seriously,” she said.
Closing the event, Pillay spoke about BASA’s petition to gauge public support for the legalisation of the sale of craft beer in grocery stores. The petition has already received over 22 000 signatures.
ENSURING THE SAFETY AND WELL-BEING OF OUR FURRY FAMILYIN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY!
A pet emergency plan is crucial for safeguarding your pets in unforeseen events and ensuring their safety, well-being, and survival. It facilitates a quick and efficient response to emergencies, guiding you in gathering essentials, securing pets, and evacuating. Including proper identification in the plan, like collars with tags and microchips, increases the chances of reuniting with your pets if separated. Addressing health needs, evacuation preparedness, and compliance with regulations, the plan offers peace of mind and reduces stress during high-pressure situations. Communication and coordination strategies with family, neighbours, and responders are integral, as is the plan’s adaptability to various emergency scenarios.
A pet emergency plan is a vital tool for effective and swift responses to crises, prioritizing the safety and well-being of your beloved pets. Your pets are important members of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s emergency plan. To prepare for the unexpected follow these tips with your pets in mind:
1. Make a plan
2. Build an emergency kit
3. Stay informed
Image from Pexels.com
WHAT SHOULD YOUR PET EMERGENCY PLAN INCLUDE?
Having a comprehensive emergency plan for both yourself and your pets is crucial to minimize difficulties and stress during unforeseen situations, including illness or accidents.
A pet emergency plan is a comprehensive strategy designed to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets in the event of various emergencies or disasters. It involves careful consideration and preparation for situations such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, evacuations, or any unexpected events that may pose a threat to your pets. A well-thought-out pet emergency plan typically includes the following components:
Evacuation Plan: If evacuation becomes necessary, it’s vital to plan for your pets as well to prevent them from getting lost, injured, or worse if left behind. Know in advance where you can take your pets if you need to evacuate your home. Identify pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or the homes of friends and family members willing to accommodate your pets. You have to develop an evacuation strategy in advance. Coordinate with neighbours, friends, or relatives to ensure someone can care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
Identification: Ensure your pets have proper identification, including collars with up-to-date tags and registered microchips. Register the microchip on multiple databases. Include your contact information and any essential medical details as well as an emergency contact outside your immediate area.
Transportation: Have appropriate carriers or crates for each pet, ensuring they are comfortable and secure during transport. Practice getting your pets used to being in carriers beforehand.
Contact List: Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including your veterinarian, local animal shelters, and pet-friendly hotels or shelters. Share this information with family members, neighbors, and friends who may be involved in your pet’s care during an emergency.
Medical Information: Keep records of your pets’ medical history, vaccinations, and any special needs they may have. This information can be crucial in case your pets require veterinary care during an emergency.
Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with family members or neighbors to ensure everyone knows how to coordinate and share information about the well-being and whereabouts of your pets.
Training: Train your pets to respond to basic commands, making it easier to manage them in stressful situations. This can be particularly important during evacuations or when interacting with emergency responders.
Secure Your Home: Take steps to pet-proof your home and secure it against potential hazards. This includes having a plan for containing pets in a safe area if necessary.
Remember to review and update your pet emergency plan regularly, especially if there are changes in your living situation, family composition, or the health of your pets. Being well-prepared ensures that you can act quickly and effectively to protect your pets in any emergency.
For further guidance, reach out to local authorities, veterinarians, animal shelters, or animal control offices to ensure the best care for your pets during emergencies.
Image by humanesociety.org
BUILDING AN EMERGENCY KIT
Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Have two kits, one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version for if you need to evacuate. Review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.
Here are some items you may want to include in an emergency kit for your pet:
Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
Medicine. Well labelled. Keep an extra supply of the medicine your pet takes regularly in a waterproof container.
Keep all their medical records in one place with this kit.
First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
Collar with ID tag and a harness or leash. Include a backup leash, collar, and ID tag. Have copies of your pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
Traveling bag, crate, or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet. Have a plan on who grabs what in an emergency.
Grooming items. Pet shampoo, conditioner, and other items, in case your pet needs some cleaning up. Dry shampoos are great for this.
Sanitation needs. Include pet litter and a litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs.
A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. You can also add a detailed description of your pet.
Important numbers. Your veterinarian’s number. If your family does not live in your town, have numbers for someone who can immediately go to your home and check on them or take them. You can even provide them with a letter of authorization and or a key to your home.
Familiar items. Put their favourite toys, treats, or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet. You can also include items that smell like you.
STAYING INFORMEDAND OTHER TIPS
Stay informed about potential hazards in your area, including weather-related risks or other events that might impact your pets. Keep abreast of local emergency plans and regulations regarding pets.
Emergency card. You can buy or make such cards to keep in your wallet or your car. Even stickers. If you are in an accident or unconscious then this person can be contacted. Never list your address, but that you have animals at home to be taken care of and the contact person.
In case of a fire at home. Have a small notice board near entrances about people and pets in this home. Not where thieves can see it from outside, but if firemen enter this could help. Read more onFIRE EMERGENCY here.
When you evacuate with your pets, place a rescue alert sticker on the front door and write “Evacuated” across the sticker so rescue workers know you’re all accounted for.
Provide exits for your pets like doggy doors. We prefer at least two.
Teach your pets to open certain doors.
Our pet sitter and one other person are listed with contact numbers on our vet accounts as having the authority to make decisions on our behalf. Inform your vet that this person can be contacted.
We opened a vet account at more than one veterinary practice in town, so if one is not available, you (or the pet sitter) do not need to do all the paperwork then.
Let your pet sitter have the family’s numbers and vice versa.
Leave an extra set of keys with a friend or neighbours.
NEVER LEAVE your pets alone when you are away for a holiday. Have someone check in at least once every 8-12 hours.
DO YOU HAVE A PLAN FOR YOUR PETS IF YOU SHOULD FALL ILL OR DIE?
Animal welfare organizations have seen first-hand the confusion as these animals arrive in shelters and have to try to cope in kennels. Often being split up or waiting long periods before being adopted or eventually just humanely killed because there are just not enough homes with this massive overpopulation crisis.
Including pets in your will is important to ensure their ongoing care and well-being after your passing. Pets are considered property in legal terms, and without specific provisions, there may be uncertainty about their fate.
Include your pets in your will and clearly state your wishes. Name one or two people you trust to make these decisions if necessary. Inform those that you name in your will to take care of your pets. Explicitly stating care instructions, including daily routines and veterinary preferences, guarantees their continued well-being. This also helps prevent disputes among family or friends and minimizes legal conflicts, providing a recognized framework for your pets’ future care. Planning for contingencies, such as naming alternate caregivers, accommodates life’s unpredictability.
Allocating financial resources in your will eases the burden on caregivers, covering veterinary, grooming, and daily expenses.
Consultation with legal professionals for proper documentation and communication with designated caregivers to ensure their willingness to take on the responsibility may be required. Talk to a company that specializes in estate planning for pets!
Doing this provides peace of mind and prevents potential surrender to shelters by providing a clear plan for your pets’ future homes. Including pets in your will expresses your love and responsibility as a pet owner.
Read more on options for your pets to include in your will and leave a legacy to a reputable animal welfare organization.
In conclusion, having an emergency plan for your pets and including them in your will is a responsible and compassionate approach to pet ownership. These measures provide a comprehensive strategy for ensuring the safety and well-being of your beloved animals in times of crisis and beyond and you will not burden an already overwhelmed animal welfare system. By taking these steps, you not only protect your pets from potential harm but also demonstrate your enduring commitment to their happiness, health, and security, even when you’re no longer able to be their primary caretaker.
Next week we will look at why animals should not be on your Christmas gift list.
