Press Releases

June 7, 2006
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Jeffrey Raddatz
Phone: (414) 431-6121
E-mail: jraddatz@wihumane.org

Keep Spot Out of the Storm
MARDI PAWS to help save animal victims from the next disaster

MILWAUKEE - Thousands of companion animals were displaced from their families and homes during the hurricane season in 2005. Katrina and Rita reminded us that preparation is the key when faced with these potential disasters. With the warm weather quickly approaching, summer storms are brewing all over the United States; posing a potential threat to you and your animal’s safety.

The Wisconsin Humane Society wants to make sure companion animals are considered during emergency evacuations. We will host the 1st annual Mardi Paws on June 9, 10 and 11 to raise awareness of new legislation that will help prevent family members from being separated. The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS Act), requires state and local authorities to consider the needs of individuals with pets and service animals in the event of a major disaster. Making provisions for animals is good public policy since thousands of people stayed in Louisiana last year because they couldn’t take their cat or dog with them.

WHS encourages you to contact your representatives and ask them to support this important piece of legislation. To get the word out to everyone about PETS Act, we're putting on our beads and dressing up Adoption Avenue! Beads will be available to all visitors for a $1.00 donation starting Friday, June 9, Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11. For our animal companions, special Mardi Paws collars will be available for sale in our Animal Antics stores. There will also be a cool coloring contest, open to all ages!

We're also taking our message on the road! Join us at Pride Fest Saturday, June 10 or Sunday, June 11 where we'll have information at our booth about PETS Act as well as a wide array of merchandise, all benefiting the animals! Craw daddy’s will also have beads for sale along with PETS Act information.

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Interview/Photo Opportunity: Great photo opportunities will be available along the chance to interview a WHS representative about Mardi Paws. Dogs and cats sporting their beads will be dolled up to remind people to take action on their behalf. To schedule an interview, please call Jeffrey Raddatz at 414-431-6121.