Marcia Breithaupt, a professional pet sitter in Collier County, Florida (Naples & Tampa area) is working on behalf of pet owners to pursuade officials to create pet-friendly shelters during natural disasters.
During the hurricanes last year, many pet owners were forced to leave their pets behind. As a result, many cats, dogs, and other animals died or had to fend for themselves until they were rescued. Still others died, or struggled until help came, with their people who refused to leave without their pets. Although some pets that were left behind were reunited with their owners, many were placed up for adoption, and are still filling shelthers throughout the country. Breithaupt would like to see measures put into place so there are ways to keep people and their pets together during natural disasters, such as hurricanes.
Breithaupt did some background work on this effort before talking with city council members. She points out that Sarasota, Florida has such a program in place which could be used as a model. Their shelters include separate areas for pets and people, and have a veterinarian on staff. She believes it’s quite feasible for the Collier County schools to be turned into pet-friendly shelters also.
You can read more about Breithaupt’s efforts here, and Collier County residents who would like to sign the petition she has started can download a form from her website. She is the owner of Liberty Home and Pet Services, in Naples, Florida.
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This is such a great idea. People without pets don’t realize the comfort we get from them in a disaster and how devastated when we can’t find them.
You’re so right about that, Jan. Sometimes our pets can be the only thing that keeps us from snapping. I’m sure many of the hurricane victims will tell you that their cats, dogs or other pets are what kept them going. Hopefully Marcia and her supporters will be able to make some changes in her community!