LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s governor and first lady are urging residents to create a plan for their pets when preparing for emergencies.
Gov. Dave Heineman and his wife, Sally Ganem, stressed the need for planning during an appearance Monday at the Capitol with Snickers, the “first puppy.”
The emergency package for Snickers — a 5-year-old silky terrier and Maltese mix — includes several days’ worth of food and water, medicine, bowls, collars and leashes and a first-aid kit, among other items.
Bryan Tuma, assistant director of the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, says pet owners should plan ahead of time, as they would for any other family member. Tuma says they should also pick a friend or neighbor to help the pet in cases when an owner isn’t at home.