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Operations News – July 2024

I know my dog … My dog would NEVER ____________
(fill in the blank).

Yes, we all know our beloved hounds, and on a normal day, we know them well. We all do normal, predictable stuff. They go for a walk, eat, sleep, get pets and lots of love. But what about when it’s not so typical? What about in an emergency? That hound we know so well might not be the same. They might be scared, stressed and acting in ways we’ve never seen before. It’s important to understand and empathize with their potential fear and stress in such situations.

It’s important to remember that a frightened dog is not the same as the one we know. Dogs rely on their survival instincts in these situations, leading to unpredictable behavior.

As experienced greyhound moms and dads, we can sometimes get a little too comfortable with the typical and normal. But let’s remember our precious hounds are still canines. It’s our responsibility to be prepared should the unthinkable happen. We need to be proactive and ready to protect our furry family members in any situation. By being proactive, we can empower ourselves to handle any emergency effectively.

Have an emergency kit with a leash, harness, and muzzle to safely transport your dog. Also, pack food, water, bowls, a first aid kit, and copies of your dog’s medical records in a waterproof container. You can add a favorite blanket or toy.

Ensure your dog’s collar has a current ID tag or microchip with your phone number.

Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your dog and evacuate them if needed. You can also designate an emergency pet guardian with keys to your home and take your dog if you’re incapacitated. Include your vet’s contact information in your emergency kit, and find a veterinarian or animal hospital nearby where you might seek shelter. Make sure the dog is familiar with this person.

Note where your dog hides so you can find him or her quickly. You can also put emergency stickers on your windows and doors to alert emergency responders that pets are in your home. If you need emergency stickers, email nancy@sagreys.org, and I’ll send them to you.

If there is a medical emergency in your home, securing your hound is crucial before emergency personnel arrive. This will ensure their safety and help the responders do their job more effectively. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in a stressful situation.

Why not put together that emergency kit, talk to a neighbor, designate a pet guardian and make those notes on a “normal” day. It could be the difference between life and death for your hound. The urgency and importance of these preparations cannot be overstated.

Always moving forward,

Nancy

Nancy Lynberg is Operations Director of Southern Arizona Greyhound Adoption and can be reached at nancy@sagreys.org.