Pets & Emergencies - Be Prepared

A scary thing happened last night, my carbon monoxide detector went off and I was in a panic. All is OK, but I was terrified because I was only able to get two of my pets out, my last kitty, Blackie was left behind, because I simply could not get her out from under the bed, no matter how hard I tried.

She's ok. Thankfully, it was a malfunction of my carbon monoxide reader that caused it to go off. This reader now needs to be replaced and my fire dept. recommended purchasing one that gives a digital reading, so that it's more clear when danger exists and you need to get out immediately.

Moral of the story is be prepared, and plan ahead on how you would get your pets out in an emergency.

The Humane Society of the U.S.(www.hsus.org) recommends that your pet disaster supply kit should be packed in a waterproof container and include the following:

1. At least a three-day supply of food and water for each pet
2. Pet medications and veterinary records
3. Leashes and harnesses
4. Current photo of your pets

Can't find Great Pet Toys - Make Your Own!

This is for all you yarn stylists out there....if you can't find the pet toys you want--Make your own!

I started doing this and I'm very happy with the results, esp. for cat toys. There's a great website called www.crochetcentral.com that has lots of great beginner level patterns that allow you to make all sorts of pet beds, cat teasers, tons of catnip mice and my favorite the kitty weed and kitty squid (don't ask about what Kitty Weed is, just check it out for yourself, you'll love it).

Best yet, all of the patterns are free for personal use...you have to love that!