Are Pets More Trouble Than Children?

Tuesday August 29, 2009

Are Pets More Trouble Than Children?

Well, I guess the answer would depend on your personal experience with both groups. The vast majority of my friends have voted for the children being way more trouble than the pets. However, I actually know a minority parent population with children who seem to cause no problems. Ever! I have kept these children under close observation for several years now just to see if they might be some kind of hybrid child/robot species which can be programed. I have so far found no evidence to support my theory. In fact, the evidence seems to be mounting in support of actual human children. I saw one of the "perfects" fall and scrape a knee. The child bleed real blood (I am sure of this because I am a nurse and therefore an expert on blood, poop, and vomit).

However, there is one situation where pets are definitely more trouble than children for all of us. That situation is during an evacuation. I know it seems like it would be an easy task. People just assume they would put the animal in the car and go. Okay, but now where are you going to go? Have you checked to be certain the animals will be welcomed at the destination?

Emergency shelters will rarely allow animals in. The few shelters that do will accept only a certain number of animals and only if they have the correct paperwork. These animals are then sent to another location away from the shelter. Hotels rooms are hard to book during large scale evacuations. Hotels which permit animals are even harder to find. If you do find one be sure to ask for all the requirements necessary for your pet to be admitted. Most hotels have strict rules regarding what type, breed, and weight of animal is allowed. In addition, you are required to supply the animal's license and up-to-date immunization record. Should you plan to shelter with a friend or family member it would be wise to discuss your plans to bring your pets. For a wide variety of reasons not all households allow pets inside. It is much better to know this before an evacuation so you can make alternate plans.

Even though our pets can be a lot of trouble during an evacuation you must take them with you. If you own a pet you have assumed a moral responsibility to care for it. Often pets become beloved members of our family. I urge you to make appropriate plans now to safe guard your animals during disasters and evacuations.

Additional evacuation information is available at www.wineandchocolateplan.com