Friday, May 7, 2010

Unrestrained Pets Pose Travel Danger

Please read from PR Web the press release from Idea Village about Doggie Seat Belt and the special story from Steve Hartman CBS News about the dog that did survive a crash not always the ending we hear from police and fire.

"Be Smart Ride Safe Bark Buckle UP", said Pet Safety Lady

Our pets; they are both our best friend and a family member. Yet every year, an estimated 30,000 car accidents occur because they travel with us unrestrained. Today, the Pet Safety Lady, Christina Selter, announced that pet owners can help prevent these dangers with a simple safety practice and a product like the new Original Doggie Seat Belt from Ideavillage Products Corporation.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Purina Mills Undertakes Limited Recall of Strategy® Horse Feed and Layena® Poultry Feed

Pet Safety Lady wanted you to know about the Pet Food Recall

Purina Mills Undertakes Limited Recall of Strategy® Horse Feed and Layena® Poultry Feed

Contact:
Jeanne Forbis: 651-481-2071 or 612-308-5441
David Karpinski: 651-481-2360

Products Distributed in Mississippi, Arkansas, Kentucky,Tennessee, Alabama, Indiana, Missouri and Virginia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- St. Louis, Mo., April 16, 2010 -- Purina Mills, LLC, is voluntarily recalling two specific lots of 50-pound bags of Strategy® Professional Formula GX horse feed and one lot of Layena® SunFresh® Recipe Pellet poultry feed. The recall is being implemented due to the discovery of metal fragments in a limited number of bags from one of the Strategy® product lots. At the time the recall was issued, five customer complaints had been received. No animal health issues had been reported.

The products being recalled were manufactured in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 24-25, 2010. They were shipped to retailers and dealers in Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Missouri and Virginia.

Only the following specific products and lot numbers are involved in the recall:
Formula No. Item No. Description Lot Number
35SS 0066547 Strategy® Professional Formula GX 0MAR24NST1A1
35SS 0066547 Strategy® Professional Formula GX 0MAR24NST2A1
61R3 0056922 Layena® SunFresh® Recipe Pellet 0MAR25NST2A1



The lot number is found on the sewing strip of each bag and is interpreted as follows:
0=Year / MAR=Month / 24=Day of Month / NST1A1=Plant Code.

Customers with products that do not have the specified lot numbers are not affected by the recall.

Customers who have purchased the recalled products should not store or feed the products and are asked to return unused product to their dealer for replacement.

Customer questions or concerns may be directed to the company's Nashville Customer Service Office at 800-424-5234.

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.


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Pet Safety Lady Likes the Article from FDA "How to report a pet food complaint"

Pet Safety Lady wants you to know how to report a pet food complaint and with the help of the FDA's guidelines in the article it makes it easy to understand how.

How to Report a Pet Food Complaint
To report complaints about pet food (and other animal feed), please contact your state’s FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinators. When reporting, provide the following information to the Consumer Complaint Coordinator.
We realize you may not have all the information requested below and we encourage you to report your complaint with whatever information you have available.  
Detailed Information about the Product
Consumers often transfer dry pet food into other containers for easier handling.  It is important to save the original packaging until the pet food has been consumed.  The packaging contains IMPORTANT information often needed to identify the variety of pet food, the manufacturer plant, and the production date.  
• Exact name of the product and product description (as stated on the product label)
• Type of container (e.g. box, bag, can, pouch, etc.)
• Product intended to be refrigerated, frozen, or stored at room temperature
• Lot number - This number is often hard to find and difficult to read.  It is stamped onto the product packaging and typically includes a combination of letters and numbers, and is always in close proximity to the expiration date (if the product has an expiration date).  The lot number is very important as it helps us determined the manufacturing plant as well as the production date.
• Best by or expiration date
• UPC code (also known as the bar code)
• Net weight
• Purchase date and exact location where purchased.
• Results of any laboratory testing performed on the pet food product
• How was the food stored, prepared, and handled?
 
Description of the problem with the product.  Examples include:
• Foul odor, off color
• Swollen can or pouch, leaking container
• Foreign object found in the product. Describe.
 
If you think your pet has become sick or injured as a result of consuming a pet food product also provide the following information about your pet
• Species (dog, cat, rabbit, fish, bird, other)
• Age, weight, breed, pregnant, spayed/neutered
• Previous health status of pet
• Any pre-existing conditions your pet has
• Do you give your pet any other foods, treats, dietary supplements or drugs?
• How much of the product does your pet normally consume?
• How much of the “suspect” product was consumed from the package?
• How much product remains?
• Clinical signs exhibited by your pet (examples: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy)
• How soon after consuming the product did the clinical signs appear?
• Veterinarian’s contact information, diagnosis and medical records for your pet.
• Results of any diagnostic laboratory testing performed on your pet
• How many pets consuming the product exhibited clinical symptoms?
• Are there any pets that consumed the product and are not affected?
• Does your pet spend time outdoors unsupervised?
• Why do you suspect the pet food caused the illness?

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Pet Safety Lady Pleased about FDA article Reporting Adverse Drug Experience in your Pets

How to Report An Adverse Drug Experience, Veterinarians and animal owners are encouraged to report adverse experiences and product failures to the government Agency that regulates the product in question. Pretesting by the manufacturer and review of the data by the government does not guarantee absolute safety and effectiveness due to the inherent limitation imposed by testing the product on a limited population of animals. CVM encourages you to contact the manufacturer of a suspect product. Reporting information for the following product categories:

Animal Drugs and Devices
Veterinarians and animal owners may report adverse drug experiences to FDA by:
You should first call the drug company to report an ADE for an FDA-approved animal drug. Drug company phone numbers can usually be obtained from product labeling. Inform the drug company that you wish to report an ADE, and ask to speak to a technical services veterinarian. The technical services veterinarian should ask a series of questions about the event, complete the FDA 1932 form, and forward the report to CVM. In addition, the technical services veterinarian may also contact the veterinarian who treated your pet to obtain more information regarding the ADE.
If the drug is not FDA-approved for animal administration, or if it is approved but you do not wish to contact the manufacturer, the report may be submitted directly to the FDA on Form 1932a.
Reports should preferably include a good medical history, all concomitant drugs the animal has been given, any recent surgical procedures, and as much in the way of clinical findings as is possible. Clinical findings would include veterinary exam, clinical chemistries, complete blood counts, urinalysis, fecal exams, radiographic results, and hemodynamic data such as blood pressure, any other pressure measurements in or around the heart, and neurologic assessments.

Submitting FORM FDA 1932a, "Veterinary Adverse Experience, Lack of Effectiveness or Product Defect Report". The 1932a is a pre-addressed, prepaid postage form which can be completed and dropped in the mail. This form may be obtained by the highlighted title above or by writing to:
ADE Reporting System
Center for Veterinary Medicine
U.S. Food & Drug Administration
7500 Standish Place
Rockville, MD 20855-2773
The Center may occasionally need more detailed information about an incident and the reporter may be called by a CVM staff veterinarian.

Telephoning the Center for Veterinary Medicine: 1-888-FDA-VETS
IMPORTANT: The identities of all persons and animals is held in strict confidence by FDA and protected to the fullest extent of the law. The reporter's identity may be shared with the manufacturer or distributor unless requested otherwise. However, FDA will not disclose the reporter's identity to a request from the public, pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act.
Leave your name, address, phone number and the brand name of the drug involved. Ask to have a 1932a form sent or ask for the phone number of the drug company you should call to report the problem.
Animal Biologics: Vaccines, Bacterins and Diagnostic Kits U.S. Department of Agriculture (800) 752-6255
Pesticides: Topically Applied External Parasiticides U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (800) 858-PEST

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Pet Safety Lady agrees with FDA Treating Pain for your Dogs

According to the FDA here is an article about treating pain for your dog, Pet Safety Lady agrees this is very important information everyone with a dog should read and know.

Keeping Your Best Friend Active, Safe, And Pain Free
Controlling your dog’s pain is essential to his overall well-being. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used to control pain and inflammation in dogs. NSAIDs help many dogs lead more comfortable lives.

What are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Inflammation—the body’s response to irritation or injury—is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, chemicals produced by the body that cause inflammation. Some NSAIDs may also be used to control the pain and inflammation following surgery.

Your veterinarian may prescribe an NSAID to treat the pain of osteoarthritis in your dog or to control pain following a surgical procedure.

Veterinary NSAIDs approved for use in dogs:
• ETOGESIC (etodolac)
• RIMADYL (carprofen)
• METACAM (meloxicam)
• DERAMAXX (deracoxib)
• PREVICOX (firocoxib)
• ZUBRIN (tepoxalin)
• NOVOX (carprofen)

In the United States, there are no veterinary NSAIDs approved for oral use in cats.
What should you discuss with your veterinarian?
NSAIDs offer pain relief and improved quality of life to many dogs. However, before giving an NSAID, or any drug, you should first talk to your veterinarian.

You should discuss:
• what the NSAID is being prescribed for
• how much to give
• how long to give it
• possible side effects
• what to avoid while your dog is taking an NSAID
• what tests are needed before giving an NSAID to your dog
• how often should your dog be re-examined
• your dog’s previous medical history and any previous drug reactions
• all medications and products your dog currently receives

What should you know before giving your dog an NSAID?
• Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog.
• NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and intestinal problems.
• Never give your dog an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian.
• Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet.
• Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose, the frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first discussing this with your veterinarian.

What side effects should you watch for?
Most NSAID-side effects are mild, but some can be serious, including death in rare situations. Common side effects seen with the use of NSAIDs in dogs may affect the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract and may include:
• Not eating or eating less
• Lethargy, depression, changes in behavior
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea, black tarry-colored stool
• Yellowing of gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes
• Change in drinking
• Changes in skin (scabs, redness, or scratching)

What to do?
If you suspect a possible side effect to an NSAID, STOP giving the drug
to your dog and call your veterinarian immediately!
When Giving Your Best Friend an NSAID, Remember these Signs:
Behavior Changes
Eating Less
Skin Redness, Scabs
Tarry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting
STOP the Drug & Call Your Veterinarian!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Pet Safety Lady agrees with FDA Purchasing Buyer Beware of Buying Pet Drugs Online

This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.

• Red Flags
• NSAIDS and Heartworm Preventives
• Tips for Buying Pet Drugs Online

"Discount pet drugs—no prescription required" may appeal to pet owners surfing the Web, but FDA experts say it can be risky to buy drugs online from sites that tout this message and others like it.

Some of the Internet sites that sell pet drugs represent legitimate, reputable pharmacies, says Martine Hartogensis, D.V.M., deputy director of the Office of Surveillance and Compliance in FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). But others are fronts for unscrupulous businesses operating against the law.

FDA has found companies that sell unapproved pet drugs and counterfeit pet products, make fraudulent claims, dispense prescription drugs without requiring a prescription, and sell expired drugs.

Pet owners who purchase drugs from these companies may think they are saving money, says Hartogensis, but in reality, they may be short-changing their pet's health and putting its life at risk.

CVM regulates the manufacture and distribution of animal drugs, while individual state pharmacy boards regulate the dispensing of prescription veterinary products.

Red Flags
Some foreign Internet pharmacies advertise that veterinary prescription drugs are available to U.S. citizens without a prescription. But, says Hartogensis, "There is a risk of the drugs not being FDA-approved."

A foreign or domestic pharmacy may claim that one of its veterinarians on staff will "evaluate" the pet after looking over a form filled out by the pet owner, and then prescribe the drug. "A veterinarian should physically examine an animal prior to making a diagnosis to determine the appropriate therapy," says Hartogensis.

CVM is especially concerned that pet owners are going online to buy two types of commonly used prescription veterinary drugs—nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and heartworm preventives.
"Both drugs can be dangerous if there is no professional involvement," says Hartogensis. "It's not generally a concern if the owner uses a legitimate online pharmacy and mails in a prescription from their veterinarian, who is monitoring the animal. But if there is no veterinarian–client–patient relationship, it's a dangerous practice."

NSAIDS and Heartworm Preventives
Veterinarians often prescribe NSAIDs to relieve pain in dogs. NSAIDs should not be purchased on the Internet without a veterinarian's involvement because
• dogs should undergo blood testing and a thorough physical examination before starting NSAIDs
• dogs should be monitored by a veterinarian while they are taking NSAIDs
• veterinarians should discuss possible side effects of NSAIDs with the owner
• the prescription should be accompanied by a Client Information Sheet that explains important safety information to the owner

Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition transmitted by the bite of a mosquito that is carrying infected larvae of the heartworm parasite. Dogs, cats, and ferrets can get heartworm. Heartworm preventives, given daily, monthly, or semiannually, depending on the product, kill the larvae before they become adult worms.

The American Heartworm Society recommends
• using heartworm medication for dogs year-round, no matter where you live in the United States
• getting dogs tested yearly to make sure they're not infected with heartworm
"Testing is important even in dogs regularly treated with heartworm preventive products due to the occasional reports of product ineffectiveness," says Hartogensis. An Internet pharmacy veterinarian cannot draw blood from the animal to perform the test. If the test isn't done, a pet owner could be giving heartworm preventives to a dog that has heartworms, potentially leading to severe reactions.

Tips for Buying Pet Drugs Online
• Order from a Web site that belongs to a Vet-VIPPS accredited pharmacy. Vet-VIPPS—the Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites—is a voluntary accreditation program of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). NABP gives the Vet-VIPPS seal to online pharmacies that dispense prescription animal drugs and comply with NABP's strict criteria, including federal and state licensing and inspection requirements, protecting patient confidentiality, quality assurance, and validity of prescription orders. Look for the Vet-VIPPS seal displayed on a pharmacy's Web site or check with NABP (click on "Accreditation Programs") to find out if a pharmacy is Vet-VIPPS accredited. Because this is a new program, begun in 2009, a small number of pharmacies are currently Vet-VIPPS accredited.
• Order from an outsourced prescription management service that your veterinarian uses. These state-licensed Internet pharmacy services work directly with the veterinarian, require that a prescription be written by the veterinarian, and support the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Ask your veterinary hospital if it uses an Internet pharmacy service.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

TOP 10 Pet Travel TIPS

Top Ten Tips for Traveling with your Pet

Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady”, like millions of Americans, loves pets. Known throughout the country as the Pet Safety Lady, Selter is the founder of Bark Buckle UP®, an organization dedicated to pet travel safety awareness. On her website barkbuckleup.com Selter advises, “Be Bmart Ride Safe® in your car, boat or RV. From point A to point B, get there safe and enjoy the ride.”Here are Selter’s top ten tips for traveling with your pet:

Before leaving the house, make sure you’ve packed the ten essentials for pet travel:
1. Pet food
2. Clean water
3. Pet medicine
4. Tags with current information
5. Leash
6. Bedding
7. First aid kit
8. Pets shots record and photo
9. Travel bowls
10. Poop bags

Never leave your pet in a vehicle unattended; it’s easy for the temperature inside a car to rise to more than 100 degrees within just a few minutes.

Make sure your pets are road-trip ready with the proper pet travel gear, such as crates and travel harnesses.

If you’re flying with your pet, plan ahead. Most airlines only allow a certain number of pets per flight. Also keep in mind the airlines often charge extra fees and impose size restrictions and specific carrier requirements for animals.

During the summer months, pavement, rocks, and sand can become too hot to handle. Keep a few sets of disposable booties on hand to protect DUKE's feet from frying.

Does your dog enjoy going for a swim? What dog doesn’t? Make sure to put a life vest on DUKE before he goes bounding into the water.

Put a life vest on DUKE even if he’s just surf-watching inside a boat.

Does the hotel where you’re headed allow pets? Make sure it does before booking the room.

When packing for your room in the pet-friendly hotel, make sure you bring along a sign to place on your door that warns “Pets Inside!” This way, the hotel cleaning person will know to watch for animals before entering the room.

Have a great trip! Check back with us for more pet safety tips.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Bad Weather, Rain and Pets oh my

According to Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” and founder of Bark Buckle UP, avoid walking dogs close to rushing water. As seen on national news just a month ago in Southern California during the rain a loose dog had fallen into the rushing water (Los Angeles River Basin) and was later rescued by the LAFD, however these types of stories don’t always end with a happy note. The temptation for some dogs to jump in and play might be too great to control.

Tip number one is to keep away from rising water, rushing water and of course dirty water. Stick to neighborhood sidewalks until creek water subsides and Carry treats to use act as a distraction to water-loving dogs

Stick to leads 6 feet in length or shorter easier to control your dog, always up to date information on their dog tag and some dogs will wear doggie rain coats (don’t forget you too need to have proper shoes and rain gear on to stay dry/warm).

Plan a shorter walk than normal and go for routes that have some trees to offer respite from big drops and steady sheets of rain. Don't stop walking your dog because of a mediocre storm. Your dog needs the exercise. Think of it this way: You get cabin fever. The same thing happens to your dog.

Clean water for you and your dog, you both need to keep hydrated, do not let your pet drink from run-off water or gutter water it can contain contaminants.


Have a quick-return plan in case the storm gets worse. The best way to be safer with pets is to PLAN, know your short cuts and pay attention.

Yes, dogs have fur, but it’s usually no more protective than a thin layer of clothes. Look for trees, bushes, awnings, homes or buildings to block some of the rain and wind in order for your dog to "do their business." Then upon returning home, offer extra treats, towel dry them, wipe feet/belly from any dirty water/contaminants and get them a warm bed to rest in.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Safe Handling Tips for Pet Foods & Treats for Pet Owners

Christina Selter "Pet Safety Lady" and founder of Bark Buckle UP agrees with the FDA that safe pet food handling tips will help to keep our pets and pet owners safer! See below the FDA tips they would like people to follow.

Consumers can take steps to help prevent foodborne illness, including Salmonella -related illness, when handling pet foods and treats. These products, like many other types of foods, can be susceptible to harmful bacterial contamination.
Salmonella in pet foods and treats can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and in people too, especially children, older people, and those with compromised immune systems. Salmonella in pet foods and treats potentially can be transferred to people ingesting or handling the contaminated products.
FDA has stepped up its efforts to minimize the incidence of foodborne illness associated with pet foods and treats. Pet owners and consumers can also help reduce the likelihood of infection from contaminated pet foods and treats by following safe handling instructions:
Buying
• Purchase products in good condition, without signs of damage to the packaging such as dents or tears.
Preparation
• Wash your hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats.
• Wash pet food bowls, dishes, and scooping utensils with soap and hot water after each use.
• Do not use the pet's feeding bowl as a scooping utensil—use a clean, dedicated scoop or spoon.
• Dispose of old or spoiled pet food products in a safe manner, such as in a securely tied plastic bag in a covered trash receptacle.
Storage
• Refrigerate promptly or discard any unused, leftover wet pet food. Refrigerators should be set at 40º F.
• Dry products should be stored in a cool, dry place—under 80º F.
• If possible, store dry pet food in its original bag inside a clean, dedicated plastic container with a lid, keeping the top of the bag folded closed.
• Keep pets away from food storage and preparation areas.
• Keep pets away from garbage and household trash.
Raw Food Diets
FDA does not advocate a raw meat, poultry, or seafood diet for pets, but is stepping up its efforts to minimize the risk such foods pose to animal and human health. The agency understands that some people prefer to feed these types of diets to their pets.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice 2010 "TOP DOG"

New York, April 1, 2010 – Bark Buckle UP – the recognized leader and experts for pet travel safety – awarded the Pet Safe Choice Vehicle Awards “TOP DOG” today at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.
This year, Bark Buckle UP’s founder Pet Safety Lady Christina Selter and her furry friends awarded “Top Dog” Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice and announced the Pet Safe Hotel, Retailer, and Airline of choice. During the presentation, Greg Kleva, host of Martha Stewart radio show “It’s a Dogs Life”, the Pet Safety Lady, and furry friends wearing the Doggie Seat Belt hopped in and out of cars and stole the show with their animal antics and demonstrations of dog and car travel safety.

This year’s Pet Safe winners included the Ford Edge (Vehicle of the Year); BassPro Shops (Retailer of the Year), Sheraton Hotels (Hotel of the Year) and Southwest Airlines (Airline of the Year).

“Most people don’t think about it, but in only a 35 mph accident with a 60-pound pet it becomes a 2,700 pound projectile. This will injure the pet, passengers, driver or the pet may escape the vehicle and cause a second accident or become agitated and bite the first responder that is on scene doing their job,” stated Selter.

The registered vehicles are evaluated on a variety of pet-related aspects, including how easily the vehicle accommodates animals and kennels of various sizes, ease of access to pet from within the vehicle, ease of pet entry and exit, ventilation for animals in the rear, as well as whether the vehicle has pet-friendly surfaces, adaptability for third party pet travel or safety gear. Ford received four out of the top ten honors for 2010 Pet Safe Vehicles of Choice List, including the Ford Transit Connect, Edge and Flex and the Lincoln MKT.

“With more than 340,000 vehicles sold since it was originally launched in late 2006, the Ford Edge has been meeting the needs of customers who demand style, technology, performance and capability in a compelling package,” said Burin. “We look ahead with excitement this summer to the arrival of the new 2011 Edge, which adds even more revolutionary technology and class-leading performance. And with a suite of safety features, flexible seating and nearly 70 cubic feet of cargo space, the Ford Edge is perfect for those traveling with pets.”

Doggie Seat Belt, the newest As Seen On TV product to offer real solutions to problems without breaking the bank. “When the weather is nice, you see dog heads hanging out the window all of the time,” said Anand “Andy” Khubani, President and CEO of Ideavillage Products Corp and distributor of the Doggie Seat Belt. “Since we all love our pets and enjoy taking them with us, Doggie Seat Belt was designed to be as easy and convenient as possible to buckle up our pets when they are in the car. This should help to decrease the chance of injury to a dog or passenger in the event of an accident.” 

The 2010 Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice TOP DOG Ford Edge award was accepted by Brett Burin Ford Edge Marketing Manager.

2010 Pet Safe Retailer, Hotel and Airline:
• BassPro Shops Unable to attend
• Sheraton Hotels on hand to accept the award Thomas Mituzas Director HR
• Southwest Airlines on hand to accept the award Amanda Udell Manager Marketing

Statistics:
• 35 MPH accident with a 60-pound pet unrestrained becomes a 2,700-pound projectile
• 98% of dogs do not travel properly restrained in a moving vehicle
• Driver distraction causes more accidents then any other issue
• 82% of pets travel on vacation with their owners
• Pet friendly lodging has increased 300% since 2005
• Over 70 million homes in America have a pet

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Media Contact: Bark Buckle UP
Ashley 949-2959515
PR@BarkBuckleUP.com
High res photos http://www.BarkBuckleUP.com/media

About Christina Selter "Pet Safety Lady":” has been featured on more than 250 TV stations nationwide including National networks, as well as radio, print, and online venues. Recently featured in her first national TV commercial, produced several PSA’s and the Pet Safety seminar that will be attended by the public FREE at more then 4000 locations in the US and Canada summer 2010. Selter’s first children’s book, “Be Smart Ride Safe®”, will be published in 2010.
Pet Safety Lady founder of Bark Buckle UP and the Bark Buckle UP Charity, works closely with first responders, auto manufacturers, airline, marine and other pet experts to help educate, inform, and protect America’s pets. Pet Safety Lady travels the country teaching pet safety to the public and works with Police, Fire, National Guard, Coast Guard EMT, K9 units, FEMA dogs, animal services, pet rescues, and volunteers her time to help save pets lives. Her Bark10-4 program has delivered more then 8,000 pet oxygen masks to Fire Chiefs in the U.S. and Canada. She has been featured with many Fire and Police Chiefs in the media educating the public on pet safety and has frequently been the host of first responder press conferences nationwide.

About Ford Motor Company: Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

About Ideavillage Products Corporation: Headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, Ideavillage Products Corporation has been bringing innovative products to market under the As Seen On TV banner since 1999. Dedicated to providing affordable quality products offering solutions to life’s everyday problems, the As Seen On TV category has become on of today’s most popular line of consumer goods and include Doggie Seat Belt, Smooth Away, HD Vision WrapArounds, MicroTouch Magic, and more. All products are available directly while select products are available at food, drug, and mass retail outlets nationwide. Ideavillage actively supports charitable organizations such as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Cherish the Children Foundation, and more. For more information on the Doggie Seat Belt visit http://www.doggieseatbelt.com

Media Contact:
BarkBuckleUP
949 361 2275 (BARK)
Email Bark@BarkBuckleUP.com
- Be Smart Ride Safe®

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Chicago Auto Show Goes to the Dogs with Bark Buckle UP's Pet Safe Choice Award

Bark Buckle UP -- the recognized leader and experts for pet travel safety -- awarded the Pet Safe Choice Awards at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show.

This year, Bark Buckle UP founder Pet Safety Lady Christina Selter and Brandy Schaffels of AskPatty.com awarded Pet Safe Choice Awards to the Top Ten Vehicles, Hotel, Retailer, and Airline. During the presentation, Sheriff Patrick Perez with Marshall the Bomb Sniffing Dog and two dozen other furry friends hopped in and out of cars and stole the show with their animal antics and demonstrations of dog and car travel safety. “Most people don’t think about it, but in only a 35 mph accident with a 60-pound pet it becomes a 2,700 pound projectile. This will injure the pet, passengers, driver or the pet may escape the vehicle and cause a second accident or become agitated and bite the first responder that is on scene doing their job,” stated Selter.

The vehicles are evaluated on a variety of pet-related aspects, including how easily the vehicle accommodates animals and kennels of various sizes, ease of access to pet from within the vehicle, ease of pet entry and exit, ventilation for animals in the rear, as well as whether the vehicle has pet-friendly surfaces, adaptability for third party pet travel or safety gear and their ease of cleanup.

During testing of the registered vehicles, Bark Buckle UP created video footage of each vehicle along with dogs demonstrating vehicle highlights. To view videos: Pet Safe Choice Awards Winners 2010

2010 Top Ten Pet Safe Vehicle
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Journey
Ford Edge
Ford Flex
Ford Transit Connect
Kia Soul
Honda Element Pet Friendly Package
Lincoln MKT
Smart Car
Volvo XC60

*Listed in alphabetical order

Retailer, Hotel and Airline*
BassPro Shops
Sheraton Hotels
Southwest Airlines

Statistics:
35 MPH accident with a 60-pound pet unrestrained becomes a 2,700-pound projectile
98% of dogs do not travel properly restrained in a moving vehicle
Driver distraction causes more accidents then any other issue
82% of pets travel on vacation with their owners
Pet friendly lodging has increased 300% since 2005
Over 70 million homes in America have a pet
Media attending will receive a doggie bag/media kit after the awards conclude, plus a set of pet oxygen masks to donate to their local fire department.


###

ABOUT: Christina Selter, "Pet Safety Lady",” founder of Bark Buckle UP, Bark10-4 and the Bark Buckle UP Charity, works closely with Fire, Police, Coast Guard and EMT personnel who support the safety program and has been featured at International Auto Shows, Pet Expos, Television, Radio, News Articles and guest speaking engagements nationwide. Bark Buckle UP is the recognized innovative leader and experts for pet travel safety. Bark Buckle UP educates and promotes awareness for pet safety while traveling with our pets.


The Ask Patty.com, Inc. website and blog AskPatty.com is a safe place for women to get advice on car buying, maintenance, and other automotive-related topics. Women can shop for cars, tires, and automotive service through the AskPatty network of Certified Female Friendly retailers across the U.S. and Canada. Watch AskPatty.com for additional pet safety features and information from the Pet Safety Lady and Bark Buckle Up!

Media Contact:
BarkBuckleUP
949 361 BARK (2275)
Email Bark@BarkBuckleUP.com
- Be Smart Ride Safe®

Friday, January 1, 2010

New Years Holiday Pet Safety Tips

The big gatherings, loud noises, and dramatic fireworks that brighten the night sky on New Year's Eve can be great fun for us, but they can be very frightening and stressful for pets. The first step for a safe holiday this New Years is to plan for pet safety.

Dogs, cats, birds and other pets are much more sensitive to loud sounds than we are," says Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” with Bark Buckle UP. " When frightened, they are at an even higher risk of running into the street and being hit by a car. The sound of fireworks can scare pets and cause them to escape from a yard or dart out an open door and become lost."



Pet Safety Lady New Years Eve Pet Safety Tips:
ID Tags and Microchips:
During Holidays loose pets are at an all time high. Even if a pet is secured inside, the sound of fireworks can cause them to enter an extreme panic mode. Dogs have been known to break through glass windows and cats are expert escape artists. Make sure your pets Microchip and/or ID tags are updated/current.

KEEP PETS INSIDE: Secure pets in a safe, enclosed room, preferably one without windows in fact have their pet carrier with them. For those hosting guests at their home, consider keeping pets in a room that is off-limits to guests, with plenty of water and food, toy and remember to put a note on the door “keep closed pet inside”.

KEEP AWAY FROM FIREWORKS:
Besides the potential toxicity pets can experience from ingesting fireworks, there is the obvious risk of accidentally burning or injuring pets by allowing them to be in the same vicinity as fireworks. Remember fun and loud noises for us not so fun for our pets.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Pet Safety Lady's Top Tips for Holiday Pet Safety

Holidays can create special dangers for pets. Each year during the various holiday seasons, thousands of pets are seriously injured or become ill. The holiday season is a busy time, a time of much planning, shopping, cooking and baking, rushing to and from parties and get-togethers with relatives and friends. Sometimes we forget about our little four-legged family members during the rush of festivities. They are curious and anxious as we, their caretakers are and there are many hazards waiting for their curiosity.

Pet Safety Lady states “holidays are great for the whole family, including pets, and there are some easy ways for us to put safety first for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas and New Year celebrations.”

Here are some vital tips to help keep your pets safe:

• Poultry bones can easily splinter and then lacerate your pet's mouth or throat or obstruct your pets' insides.

• Onions and onion powder, widely found in stuffing, can damage your dogs or cat's red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia.

• Chocolate has the potential to be fatal to your dog or cat so place those sweets well out of reach.

• Aluminum foil, wax paper and other food wrappings, if ingested, can cause intestinal obstruction. Make sure to place these items securely in the garbage.

• Provide your pet with a quiet retreat should the holiday festivities become too much for him. Watch his behavior to make sure he is not stressed.

• Keep outside doors closed and remind guests there is a pet in the house.
• Fatty, rich, or new types of foods can give your pet pancreatitis or gastroenteritis, two medical conditions that can be very painful and even life threatening.

• Keep garbage cans securely closed. If your pet gets into it, he may think he's hit the jackpot. But all he'll be winning are health problems that can range from gastric disturbance, vomiting and diarrhea to the worst-case scenario; death.

• Plants poisonous to pets include holly, mistletoe, poinsettia, lilies, and Christmas rose.

• Pine needles can create problems if ingested as can the ingestion of tinsel, ribbons or garlands causing sickness or obstruction. So be mindful of these potential dangers when placing decorations around your home.

• Unsecured Christmas trees pose hazards to climbing critters as they can topple or be knocked over.

• Don't forget to prevent the ingestion of Christmas tree water since stagnant water or preservatives and pesticides from the tree can be toxic.

• Other holiday hazards include menorahs, liquid potpourri pots. Scented candles are very dangerous for pet birds.

• Breakable items such as glass and other ornaments pose a threat so be careful to place these out of reach. Electrical cords, heated decorative bulbs, hooks, and a wide variety of other adornment items create temptations. Use topical pet deterrents and barriers for protection.

• Nicotine poses a threat to your animals. Keep it out of reach.

• Chewed aluminum foil and e-coli are risks to pets.

• Store food in secure containers out of reach to prevent ingestion or poisoning.

• Holiday travel like any other requires a little extra thought with your pets. Be sure to secure your pets while traveling in a vehicle, take plenty of fresh water and if you are going on a long trip remember supplies for all their day-to-day needs.

The holidays should be a happy time for you and your pets. These useful tips will help you avoid an emergency visit to your local veterinarian. The food and decorations that enhance our holidays can be dangerous, even fatal, for your pet. Always be aware of the dangers that are around, and plan careful to avoid these potential hazards. With safety at the forefront of your holiday planning, you’ll be sure to enjoy a great time with your family, friends and pets.

You can email Christina@PetSafetyLady.com for some fun pet healthy snack recipes. Or any questions you may have about pet holiday safety.

Visit this link to see pet safe products.
http://www.barkbuckleup.com/Products.asp

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Pet Safety During the Holidays


The upcoming holiday season is an important time to think about pet safety. As December is the culmination of the year, it also is a culmination of all of our work here at Bark Buckle UP. The end of the year is a time filled with travel, eating, and illumination - either by electric or firelight - that brings joy to our families, including our furry friends. But we must always be prepared for accidents and take precautions to protect our pets as we would our families.

During the holidays, we travel distances far and wide to see our friends and families, and often take our pets along for the festivities. It is so important to make sure your pet is safely secured in a carrier, if you choose to travel by plane, or in a carrier or NHTSA-tested harness secured by safety straps if you choose to travel by car. Unfortunately train travel is limited to non-existent, since Amtrak does not allow pets on trains due to unregulated baggage car conditions, except for service dogs. For more information on Amtrak's service dog policy, please go to their website. For more information on how to secure your pet in your vehicle, please check out our YouTube Channel where you'll find easy-to-follow videos. To see what is required by individual airlines for flying with your pet, either in cabin or as checked luggage, please visit BringFido.com, which has a great compilation of airline pet policies on its site. Lastly, if you don't know which pet carriers, straps and harnesses are NHTSA-tested, check out our approved list of pet products at BarkBuckleUP.com. Please don't ever travel with your pet unsecured in your lap or in an untested product - it is so easy to prevent a travel tragedy this holiday season by being educated and making sure to secure your pet.

Holidays aren't just about travel. We all look forward to the decorations and platters of food that welcome us into this festive time. But we mustn't forget that our pets can't have everything we can. I remember one holiday many years ago when our German Shepherd, Boomer, jumped onto the kitchen counter and devoured an entire pan of fudge. Boomer became very ill and after calling the vet, we had to force the fudge back up (no small task with a sick, 120-pound dog). Boomer was fine after a few days, but it was a close call. Make sure you are prepared for accidents like Boomer's with your pet's emergency information, your vet's phone number, and poison control's number on hand so that if your pet consumes something that makes them sick, you can act quickly. Check out the American Association of Poison Control Centers' website to find your local Poison Control Center's contact information and the ASPCA's site for common household poisonous items. Please remember that foods aren't the only items that could make pets sick - Christmas tree water that has been treated with preservatives, and floral bouquets are also common poisons to both Fido and Kitty. So keep them out of reach by covering your tree stand and by keeping flowers out of paw's reach.

The same goes for candles and fireplaces. December is unfortunately a month that sees many residential fires from candles, cooking fires and faulty Christmas lights. Make sure open flames are monitored and that your fireplace screen is in place. Be prepared ahead-of-time for an emergency evacuation of your home by having a family evacuation plan in place that includes an easily accessible pet carrier containing your pet's vitals. In case there is a fire, and your pet can't be found in time to get out safely, make sure first responders know your pet's information. Also, you can still help donate to support your local fire department's drive to have pet oxygen masks on hand in case your pet suffers from smoke inhalation from a fire in your home. You can also check BarkBuckleUP.com to see if your local agency has already received pet oxygen masks. Since oxygen masks are not designed for snouts, it is nearly impossible for first responders to get a good seal on standard masks and pets can't get the oxygen they need. With the help of SurgiVet, we hope to get masks in first responder's hands in hopes of saving lives.

By being prepared and educated this holiday season, you can keep your trips and homes accident free, therefore keeping your pets safe so they can receive their gifts of chew-bones and catnip mice without a care in their furry little heads. Happy Holidays to you and yours from Bark BuckleUP.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

National Preparedness for Pets Too

National Preparedness Month goes for the family pets too. Press conference guest speakers were Kathy Davis LA Animal Services, Mani Torres Battalion Chief Santa Monica Fire Department, Greg Baek PIO Los Angeles Police Department and Christina Selter Pet Safety Lady & Founder of Bark Buckle UP.

Be prepared is the message include your pets in your plans for any emergency or evacuation.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Pet Safety Lady Test Drives Volvo XC60

Bark Buckle UP & Pet Safety Lady Test Drive the Volvo XC60 with City Safety. The Volvo XC60 has been entered into the Bark Buckle UP Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice Awards 2010.

Pet Safety Lady and Betty check it out and don't miss the ending.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Why Pet Safety is Important to Me

As a new contributor to Bark BuckleUP, I’ve been asked lately why I think pet safety is an important topic. Besides the obvious clues -- that I own a cat and dog and have been a friend to animals my entire life -- I have also been touched by a tragedy that will forever color the way I view pet safety. Several years ago, a friend of mine (whom I will call Judy) was happily married and she and her husband Mike owned a large German shepherd named Hank. Judy and Mike were very loving pet parents, taking Hank to the dog park, dog beach, even planning “dog-cations” around him to pet-friendly cities (like San Diego). They loved that dog like a child and nothing made them happier than to lavish him with love.

Judy and Mike quite often would take trips to the PetSmart with Hank, letting him socialize with the other dogs, and pick out his next chew bone from the bin. On their car rides, Judy would drive, and Mike and Hank would sit in the back of their sedan. I don’t think it ever occurred to Judy and Mike that they were doing a disservice to themselves, and to Hank, by not securing him in the backseat. In fact, I know they liked to let him hang his head out the window, running from side to side, smelling and wagging in his puppy-dog way.

One evening, as Judy and Mike were driving back from yet another successful trip to the PetSmart, a vehicle ran a red light and T-boned their sedan. A bad accident in any circumstances, but it was made all the more tragic by what happened next. The way the accident occurred, Hank (who was unsecured) flew into Mike (seat belted) with such great force that they both died instantly. It was later proved (by the insurance company of the driver that ran the light) that Mike would have survived the accident if the force of an 80-pound dog had not come directly at his head and broken his neck.

My friend Judy never even thought about securing Hank, or that a pet can take on so much force in an accident that it becomes a projectile able of critically injuring whomever it hits. I shake my head and become very sad whenever I pass a car with a pet unsecured in the cabin, hoping that the person and pet get home safely. I want to pull them to the side of the road and explain to them that a simple restraint could guarantee their pet’s and family’s lives.

So yes, I have a passion for pet safety, particularly in-car safety, because I have seen firsthand what happens from ignorance or apathy concerning the harnessing of pets while driving. It is very simple (and relatively inexpensive) to buy a pet harness, pet carrier, or car seat that works with your car’s safety belts, that will keep your pet from becoming a projectile during an accident. Plus crates can be secured using safety straps and the D-rings in crossovers and SUVs. Just remember to make sure that the pet safety devices you are looking for are rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to ensure that they have been tested and won’t fail in an accident (unfortunately there are some products out there that are unsafe). For more information on how to strap your pets into your vehicle, or on what products have been tested by the NHTSA, please check http://www.barkbuckleup.com.

I look forward to blogging more and hope to receive your feedback here, on our Facebook page, or on Twitter.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Most Pet Oxygen Masks in history to be delivered to Fire Departments

Bark10-4 announces the Fire Departments that received pet oxygen masks for Oct 16th largest number of masks for one day ever in support of National Fire Safety Month Pet Oxygen Mask campaign to get a Pet Mask on every fire truck nationwide.
Pet Oxygen Masks Delivered by Bark 10-4 Program for orders on Oct 16th 2009 through the Bark10-4 program announces the Fire departments that got the pet masks.

Pet Safety Lady stated "we are overwhelmed with the public support as this was the most masks in history to be delivered to Fire Departments across America, and we are thrilled to be a part of the program".

Bark 10-4, Bark Buckle UP, Pet Safety Lady and SurgiVet all joined forces for the first time EVER on a national program to get the much needed pet oxygen mask into the hands of the fire departments across America.

Please see the list below to see if one was donated to your local Fire Department or donate one today by visiting www.Bark10-4.com

October 16th donors across America got the pet oxygen mask to fire departments in their communities and by doing so increased the chances of survival rate for pets affected by fires.

Alpine Fire Department
Blue Ridge Fire Department
Plainfield Fire Department
Town of Sheboygan Falls Fire
Kohler Village
Menasha Town Fire Department
Pickerel Fire & Rescue Squad
Whitewater Fire Department
Town of Greenville Fire Dept
Milwaukee Fire Department
Richard Hansen Fire Chief
Lewis County Fire District #5
Easton Fire District #3
Bothell Fire Department
Fire District 1 DJ Evans, Fire Chief
Springfield Fire Station
Bailey's Crossroads Volunteer Fire Depart
North Pointe Fire Station #39
Station 12 - Volunteer Organization
Scruggs Volunteer Fire Department
Fairfax County Fire & Rescue
Forest VA FD
Ebony Volunteer Fire Department
Matewan Fire Department
Fire Deputy Chief Virginia Beach VA
Public Safety Dept.,
Pearland Fire Department
Waco Fire Department
Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal Midlothian TX
Greenville Fire Department
Freer Volunteer Fire Dep & Ems
Travis County Emergency Service District #9
Village Fire Department
Flower Mound Fire Station 2
North Montgomery County Fire Dept
Frisco Fire Department Administration: Station No 1
Flat Creek-Bethesda Volunteer Fire Department
Lonas Fire Station #12
Munford-Atoka Fire Department
Sulphur Springs Volunteer Fire Dept
City of Cookeville Fire Department: Chief
Nashville Fire Department‎
Lexington Fire Fairview Fire Station #14
Conway Station 1 Fire Dept.
Greer Fire Dept -
Charlestown Fire District‎
Newtown Square Fire Company
Lititz Fire Company No 1‎
Conneaut Lake Volunteer Fire Department Station 3‎
Mont Alto Fire Co‎
Independence TWP VOL Fire Department
Reliance Fire Co
Greater Valley EMS
Elfinwild Volunteer Fire Company
Franklin Park Volunteer Fire Department
Union township Vol fire dept
Hampden Twp Volunteer Fire Co
Clarendon Fire Department
Mifflinburg Borough: Mifflinburg Hose Co #1
Lowell Rural Fire Department‎
Yukon Fire Department‎
Norman Fire Department‎
Tulsa Fire Department‎
Sharon Township Fire Department
Cincinnati Fire Department
Upper Arlington Fire Division
Norwich Fire Department‎
Scioto Twp Fire Department‎
Coolville Fire House‎
Bath Fire Department‎
Harrison Township Fire House‎
Coolville Fire House‎
Bellbrook Fire Department‎
Mason Fire Station No 1‎
Washington Township Fire Dept Fire Department
Village of Ottawa Hills: Fire Department‎
Bloomfield Hills Fire Department‎
Lawrence Cedarhurst Fire Department‎
Hook, Ladder and Hose Co., No. 1
Lily Dale Volunteer Fire Department‎
Walker Fire Station
Unionville Volunteer Fire Department
Pine Island Volunteer Fire Department
Oswego Fire Department
Ransomville Fire Co No 1
Jackson Volunteer Fire Co‎
Gordons Corner Fire Co‎
South Wall Fire Rescue,
Long Branch Fire Department‎
Allendale Volunteer Fire Department
Holland Township Volunteer Fire Company
Oakland Fire Department‎
Colonia Fire Co‎
Ho Ho Kus Fire Department‎
River Vale Fire Department‎
FIRE CHIEF Acworth NH
Somersworth Fire Department‎
Epping Fire Department‎
Concord Fire Department‎
North Conway Fire Dept: Fire Station
Juniata Fire Department Station
Hubert Volunteer Fire Department‎
Winston-Salem Fire Department‎
Cary Fire Department‎
Denver Fire Department‎
Harrisburg Fire Department‎
Sidney Volunteer Fire Department‎
Reidsville Fire Department‎
Cary Fire Department
Beaufort Fire Department‎
Montana City VFD
Marble Hill Fire Department‎
Knob Noster Fire Department‎
Ballwin Fire Department
David Frazier Jr Chief of EMS & Fire Services
Lake Elmo City Fire Department‎
St Michael Fire Department‎
City of North Branch: Fire Dept‎
Montevideo Fire Department‎
Fire Station No. 1
Bemidji Fire Department
Auburn Hills Fire Department
Rochester Fire Dept
Niles Fire Dept
Bloomfield Township Fire Department‎
Ottawa Hills Village Fire Department‎
Pepperell Fire Department
Andover Town Fire Department
Acushnet Fire Department‎
Stoughton Fire Department
North Attleboro Fire Department‎
Weymouth FD
Provincetown Fire Department
Oxford Fire Department
County of Anne Arunde FD
Level Fire Dept
Fallston Vol Fire Co
Kent Island Fire Department
Long Reach Fire Station 9
Neck District Fire Co
Kennebunkport Fire Dept
Bowdoinham Fire Department‎
Fire CHIEF Shelby Township

Monday, November 16, 2009

Pet Oxygen Masks Delivered by Bark 10-4 Program Oct 1-15th 2009

Bark10-4 announces the Fire Departments that received pet oxygen masks during the first two weeks of National Fire Safety Month Pet Oxygen Mask campaign to get a Pet Mask on every fire truck nationwide.

Bark 10-4, Bark Buckle UP, Pet Safety Lady and SurgiVet all joined forces for the first time EVER on a national program to get the much needed pet oxygen mask into the hands of the fire departments across America.
See the list below to see if one was donated to your local Fire Department or donate one today by visiting www.Bark10-4.com
October 1-15th donors across America get the pet oxygen mask to fire departments in their communities and by doing so increased the chances of survival rate for pets affected by fires.
Palatine IL FD
Nipomo CA FD Station 20
New Melle MO FD
Normal IL FD
Matthews NC FD
Georgetwon Twp IN Fire Dept
New Melle MN FD
St Clair Shores MI FD
Sterling Heights MI FD
Wayland MI FD
Sierra Fire Protection District NV #30
Nofca Holy Twp MI Fire Dept
Canton, MI Fire Dept
Lincoln Park MI FD
Upton MA FD
Stillwater MN FD
Ronkonkoma Fire Dept
Perryville MO FD
Greenlawn NY Volunteer Fire Dept
Milford MI FD
City of Sidney OH Fire Dept
FDNY
Butler Township OH Fire Dept
Wissahickon PA Fire Company
Forty Fort Borough PA Fire Dept
Frisco TX FD
Houston TX FD
Annandale Volunteer Fire Dept VA Station 408
Dayton OH FD
Phillipsburg OH FD
Town of Langdon Fire Dept NH
Bethel Twp Fire Dept OH
Anna Fire Dept OH
Massillon Fire Dept OH
Slater Chemical Fire Co Glenham, NY
Tipp City Fire Dept OH
Chicago Fire Dept
Decker Canyon/Malibu Fire Station CA
Los Angeles Fire Dept #88
Sherman Oaks, CA
Los Angeles Fire Department
Van Nuys CA
Farmington Hills MI FD
St Louis IL Fire Dept
Brooklyn MI FC, Station 2
Brighton MA FD
Silver Spring MD Volunteer Fire
Vadalia OH FD Fire Admin
Center Harbor Fire Dep NH
Huber Heights OH FD
Los Angeles, Fire Dept Encino
Collinsville IL Fire Dept #1
Garden City MI FD
Englewood OH FD
Lyndhurst Fire Dept NJ
Birmingham Fire Depart AL
Wildwood Crest Fire Dept NJ
Los Angeles Country Fire Dept
Marina Del Rey CA
Southgate MI FD
Fire Dept Fort Myers Fl
West Caldwell NJ Volunteer FD
Morgan Hill FD Los Gatos CA
Woodland FD Woodland CA
Kingman AZ Admin Building
West Grove FD PA
Denton NC Volunteer FD
Elephant Butte Fire Dept
Newbury Fire Department NH
Highland Twp. Fire Depart MI
Maine Windsor Volunteer FD
Orlando FL FD
Pleasant Beach FD NJ
Crooked Creek Township Volunteer Fire Depart NC
Westminster FD MD
Manitowish Waters FD WI
Glen Burnie Volunteer Fire Depart MD
Apopka Fire Chief's FL
Seminole County Fire Dept FL


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Friday, November 13, 2009

Do Not Wait Until Disaster Strikes To Be Prepared

November is National Preparedness Month
Goes for the family pet too


The PETS Act of 2006 (Pet Evacuation & Transportation Standards Act) requires local and state emergency preparedness authorities to include in their evacuation plans how they will accommodate household pets and service animals in the event of a major disaster or evacuation.

Kathy Davis with Los Angeles Animal Services stated, “Do not wait until disaster strikes to be prepared. Plan now for where you will take your pet and insure that you have vaccination records and a carrying cage ready for the next event. If your pet has a special diet or requires medication, keep a supply ready to go.”

The shelters are flooded each year with lost or abandon family pets. EVAC centers are not able to accommodate pets without the proper carriers.

“It’s up to you to be prepared and by planning ahead to insure your pets’ health and safety helps the whole community to be safer. Keep all of your emergency items in a small carrier or duffle bag near your crate or travel safety gear for easy access. In an emergency, you can then simply grab your Pet Pack and go!” Pet Safety Lady Christina Selter.

“Always remember, if you evacuate your home, being prepared insures better safety for the whole family”, stated Battalion Chief Jose Torres with the Santa Monica Fire Department.

DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND!
• More than 500,000 pets are effected by fires each year and evacuations
• Over 40,000 pets each year die of smoke asphyxiation
• Losing a pet due to evacuation can be a devastating experience
###
About LA Animal Services: The predecessor to the Los Angeles Animal Services Department of today was formed by ordinance in 1947. With the General Manager as executive, the Department is under the control of a Board of Commissioners, with five members appointed by the Mayor, and by the City Council of Los Angeles. A current organization chart of the Department is found below. For more information about the organization of Los Angeles City government, you may wish to review the City Clerk’s brochure, your Government at a Glance. http://cityclerk.lacity.org/cps/pdf/govtglnc.pdf

About Pet Safety Lady, Bark 10-4, Bark Buckle UP: Christina Selter, “Pet Safety Lady,” works closely with Fire, Police, Coast Guard and EMT personnel who support the safety program and has been featured at International Auto Shows, Pet Expos, Television, Radio, News Articles and guest speaking engagements nationwide. She is the founder of Bark Buckle UP the recognized innovative leader and experts in pet travel safety. Bark Buckle UP educates and promotes awareness for pet safety while traveling with our pets and Bark 10-4 that helps fire departments nationwide obtain the Pet Oxygen Masks to help save pets lives. http://www.petsafetylady.com and for high res photos email Bark@BarkBuckleUP.com