Last month I wrote about what we can do. There is still more that can be done. One thought has been about all those unsung heros who deserve our gratitude, appreciation and so much more. There are other heros – helpful rescuers who have run to the rescue and also deserve our appreciation. Being in the Coast Guard, I have worked with SeaDogs/SARDogs and other rescue animals and developed a healthy respect for their work and training ethics. One of the stories I heard recently was that the rescue dogs that are being used (dozens) for recovery are also a means of support for the crews there. They see the dogs and take a minute to pet them or just hold them and find a moment of solace. What a great thing to have there.
Other rescuers that shouldn’t be forgotten are those who are striving to rescue pets and other animals from the damaged areas and pets who are stranded in homes and have lost their sole owner. In times of disasters and emergency, these groups have always stepped up to help in such recoveries when others would have forgotten about the animals.
Besides those involved in rescue and recovery efforts are the good folks of the armed forces stepping up in defense here in the 'home land' and away. As they are called up and activated, they may be forced to leave behind some pets. It is tragic, but it happens fairly often in such situations. According to one alert reader, there is now 'Operation: Noble Foster,' comprised of several organizations dedicated to seeing that servicemen and women have their four-legged friends to come home to. The Feline Rescue Network is co-ordinating the cat side of things, and others are pitching in. More information can be found at http://www.felinerescue.net/noblefoster/...
An event like this may bring to mind a lost pet or loved one of your own. I hope you find this article helpful. I feel it is important to remember those feelings, as well as the good times and emotions we have from remembering our loved ones, human or not. It also helps us to appreciate what we have (or even had). We must remember to take the time to tell others we love them, pet the cats and be thankful.
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