23d CES speaks up for pets, helps prepare owners

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Erick Requadt
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs

Members of the 23d Civil Engineer Squadron, along with the American Red Cross, held a National Preparedness Month event, Sept. 23, here.

The event revolved around the 23d CES handing out free items to spread awareness about how pet owners can better prepare if a disaster hits.  

“We’re out here to spread the word on how people can best prepare for not only themselves, but also their pets, for any kind of disaster,” said Master Sgt. Terri Adams, 23d CES emergency management section chief. “We want to make sure the entire family, including everyone’s pet, is taken care of should a hurricane or tornado come our way again.”

While people often plan to secure their loved ones in the midst of a disaster, Adams explained that sometimes pets can be forgotten.

“I think, for the most part, everybody loves their pets and thinks of them as family,” Adams said. “It breaks their heart when a disaster comes and they have to leave their pet or something happens to their pet because they didn’t take a few minutes to plan ahead. We’re out here to remind [people] that your animal doesn’t have anyone to speak for them, so [you’re] their voice.”

Adams stressed that because owners are the voice for their pets, that there are some simple yet effective measures they could take to keep them safe.

“Food and water is hopefully an obvious thing,” she said. “Simple things like having a blanket that comforts them, having their favorite toy, and maybe getting a collapsible kennel so they have their own space and don’t feel threatened.”

Having been through a hurricane before, Ted Uyeno, a Valdosta resident, expressed his appreciation for this event by taking advantage of the items provided at the event, because they provided direction and guidance on how to be more prepared.

The 23d CES is scheduled to have one more event for National Preparedness Month, Sept. 27, at the Base Exchange on Moody Air Force Base, Ga. Those interested in more information may contact the 23d CES at 229-460-2420.