Free animal rescue workshop

When flood waters rose above 100-year record levels last August in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Animal Care was ready with horse trailers for possible evacuations of pets. When lightning strikes started 18 fires overnight last month, Animal Care's Dave Allison reported to the Emergency Operations Center at 1 a.m., ready to go to work.

"When disaster strikes pets and people often become separated, or people refuse to leave a dangerous situation without their pets," said Allison. "That's one part of a disaster that we can plan for and be ready for."

Mat-Su Animal Care is looking for people who are willing to help. Animal Care is hosting a free volunteer training workshop on Emergency Animal Rescue on July 21 at the Central Mat-Su Public Safety Building at 101 West Swanson Ave. in Wasilla from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The class will be taught by United Animal Nations' Emergency Animal Rescue Services volunteers. Among the topics: attendees will learn how to set up and operate temporary animal disaster relief shelters and how to coordinate medical care for sick and injured animals.

"By attending this training, you will be prepared to help those who are often left behind in desperate situations. This training is something that you can use in all areas of the country and in many situations."

Call the Mat-Su Animal shelter 745-5343 if you would like to attend or you can register for the class on the United Animal Nations web site. 

Participants have a chance to win door prizes. Four quilts from the Hiland Mountain Correctional Facility Giveback program, will be given away, as well as dog food, cat food, books on emergency preparedness, and fanny packs for disasters.