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Break the Chain: Protect Your Pets During Emergencies

Typhoons and floods in the Philippines often result in heartbreaking stories of animals stranded or chained, unable to escape. Beyond evoking sympathy, viral images of dogs tethered to fences or posts as floodwaters rise call for the urgent need for improved pet safety regulations.

These incidents reveal how some owners unintentionally place their pets in danger due to fear or lack of preparation. Organizations such as the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) have consistently advocated for more compassionate disaster preparedness, urging owners to include their pets in their evacuation plans.

Pet ownership during emergencies underscores the broader moral obligation people have toward animals. It is a collective duty that reflects the kindness and resilience of society. Taking the same precautions for animals as people do for themselves fosters empathy within the community.

The survival of pets and their owners in crises is deeply interconnected. Mutual survival strategies ensure that no family memberβ€”furry or otherwiseβ€”is left behind. There is a need for pet owners to prepare emergency packs for their pets: food, water, an extra leash, and medical supplies. Using portable carriers or makeshift items like plastic basins can also help keep pets safer during storms.

In the event that evacuation becomes necessary and owners cannot bring their pets with them, they should be unleashed and allowed to escape. This approach has saved the lives of countless animals in past disasters.

Many pet owners believe that keeping their animals chained ensures their protection. But tethering them increases the risk of drowning or injury, especially during floods and other emergencies. As a result, they are exposed to debris and rising waters, while unchained animals can instinctively seek higher ground or shelter.

Pets also require care and rehabilitation after natural disasters. Vaccinations, wound treatment, and trauma monitoring are essential for their recovery. While organizations like PAWS and CARA Philippines often extend assistance, pet owners are ultimately responsible for the safety and well-being of their animals.

The stories of animals saved from storms should serve as reminders that treating our pets as part of our family during emergencies is not just about survival; it’s about respecting and appreciating our bond with them.

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