As wildfires and floods can threaten our region at a moment's notice, we not only have our human families to consider when preparing for the worst.
The Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team is hosting an emergency animal sheltering weekend in Vernon and Coldstream on June 22 and 23.
It is an organization that has been a tremendous help during emergencies such as flooding and wildfires.
The two venues are St John Ambulance, 1905 47 Ave. in Vernon and The Crate Escape Dog Adventures at 7181 Brewer Rd. in Coldstream.
The training runs from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the cost is $40 per person per day
Topics will include setting up and dismantling a shelter, roles and responsibilities, registration and animal intake routine, species/ breed recognition, feeding and animal care – species specific, dog walking in a shelter environment, kennel/cage cleaning, personal preparedness to respond, self-care in emergency situations, radio protocols, resource acquisition and equipment.
The organization is also looking for new volunteers.
"They are looking for people who are interested in volunteering with the organization and who would be able to assist during emergencies," said event organizer Heather Ferguson
"A wide variety of volunteers are needed, from people to go into the field and do the hands on animal rescue to administrative duties and team organization leaders. Anyone and everyone can be an asset to the team."
For more information email Heather Ferguson.
- John K. White, Castanet
