Roadblocks needed
It makes me sick to see people in the big supermarkets with two or three carts full of groceries, and not the generic food brands! Especially when they drive nice automobiles and then they “pay” with food stamps. The men accompanying them often wear expensive boots while they wait for the purchases.
Also years ago there were roadblocks to ensure that drivers had licenses and proper registrations. It appears not to be so anymore. I wish this would happen more often, if not every week than every month. Many people drive in the Valley without licenses or insurance. Then when there is an accident they want to go after the insurance of the other person!
Robert Luna, Edinburg
Protect pets in disasters
Hurricanes Irma and Harvey are devastating reminders that disaster preparedness saves lives. American Humane is urging pet owners to take two simple steps to ensure you and your animal companions are ready before the next catastrophe strikes.
>> First, pets should always wear collars and ID tags with their name, a cell phone number, and any urgent medical needs; for added assurance, American Humane also recommends microchipping your pet. Remember, microchips aren’t GPS devices or location trackers; the devices simply store emergency contact information, which animal owners are responsible for providing and keeping up-to-date. For safety, ask your veterinarian to check the registration status of your pet’s microchip.
>> Second, Develop a pet-specific disaster plan and evacuation kit, including: an extensive list of safe places — such as emergency animal shelters, pet-friendly hotels, and relatives and friends in another region who could house your pets. Have a comfortable pet carrier or crate; a favorite toy or comfort item, like a blanket; one-week supplies of water, nonperishable pet food; medications; copies of veterinary records and vaccination history; and recent photos of you holding your pet, which can be used to help verify ownership in case of unexpected separation.
Our beloved four-legged family members should never be left behind. To protect your pets, be prepared.
Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of the American Humane Society
