This is the first time since Hurricane Sandy struck that I could get on the internet. This devastating storm has affected millions of people. My power was just turned back on late last night but there are millions that are still suffering. Getting gas is still a problem and here in New Jersey, we’re on the odd/even system. People are trying to get their lives back and move on but it will be a very slow process. There are so many stories to tell but I will concentrate on one in particular.

The waters were rising in a home on the Jersey shore. The owners tried to weather it out but they would not have survived if they stayed. When rescuers came to evacuate them, their beloved cat had disappeared. They didn’t have time to look for her and had to leave without her. This is a heartbreaking experience. Cats get very nervous and will do anything to hide it situations like this. The only advice that I could give is that if there is even the threat of a situation where you may have to evacuate:

1. Have your cats carrier close at hand.
2. Pack a “go” bag for your cat including food, litter, medications, etc.
3. Keep your cat confined to a small area like a bedroom or den. This way in the event that you do have to evacuate, you can quickly find the cat, put him in his carrier and get him to safety. He will be fine with food, water and litter in a small area. This is very important to remember. When the water is rising, or the wind is tearing apart your home, it’s too late!!
4. Prepare for disaster and have a plan for your cat, don’t wait until the last minute.

What can you do to help the victims of Sandy?

You could donate to the relief efforts by contacting the following organizations:

Red Cross – text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10.00 or call 1-800-REDCROSS.

Salvation Army – Text “SANDY” to 80888 to give $10.00 or call 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769).

United Way – Visit UWSandyRecovery.org to donate to the Hurricane Sandy Recovery Fund. You can also use your phone to text RECOVERY to 52000 to make a $10.00 donation.

Compassion Fund – at Bergen County’s United Way. Mail to Bergen County’s United Way, 60 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ 07652.

Bergen County – Drop off new clothing, non-perishable food, hand sanitizer, pet food for dogs and cats and gift cards from 8:00am to 6:00PM daily at Community Transportation, 178 Essex Street in Lodi, Margaret of Cortona Church, 31 Chamberlain Ave in Little Ferry and at the Midland Park Senior Center, 46-50 Center Street, Midland Park.

Passaic County – Donate food to the Voluntary Organizations Active in disaster, known as VOAD, from 3:30 to 4:30pm daily at its headquarters at 189 Berdan Ave, Way. Call 973-694-6466 or 973-686-3660 to volunteer.

Any amount will be greatly appreciated and will go a long way.

Remember, your pets count!