Helping Japan

We want our Eastern Pack and Pride members to know we’re thinking of them during this tragedy. While we mostly feel helpless over here in the States, there are many things we can do to help:

• That old cell phone you left in a drawer when you upgraded to the “next best thing” could become a life line for a volunteer pulling a survivor from rubble.
• If you’re physically challenged, help out online with some of the networks seeking to find loved ones and pets that were lost in the chaos.
• Fostering an animal here in the States could save the life of an animal overseas. Volunteer to help train an animal for Search and Rescue, or to be an Assistance dog.

We’re asking you to take a moment to consider the people and pets around you. Even if you can’t take the time to volunteer, or you’re too broke to send money, take a single moment to offer a thought, to process the suffering of others. You don’t have to be rich to donate time, pass along a message, or even just think good thoughts. If you can make the difference in one life, whether it’s locally or globally – human or animal, you’ve done something you can be proud of forever.

Several groups are working to assist both people and pets in the aftermath of this tragedy. The Animal Miracle Network Foundation has been collecting cell phones for volunteers to use in coordinating rescue. World Vets is a non-government organization that provides veterinary care on a global scale. They are in need of volunteers, supplies and funding at their Fargo, ND headquarters.

The American Humane Association continues to supply help to both children and animals. Several groups have teamed up to rescue the cats in Japan, and they include the Japan Cat Network , Heart Tokushima and Animal Friends Niigata.

At this point, we’re not completely sure what happened on Tashiro Island (aka., “Cat Island”). Initial reports said the island was completely covered by the tsunami, but after a recent update from ConsciousCat.net, it’s believed that the island survived, but sank back nearly 30 centimeters into the sea. There was obviously a great deal of property damage as well. You can read more about Cat Island at http://www.tofugu.com/2010/11/09/cat-island-japan/ – if you love cats, it’s recommended reading! Cat Island is reportedly a true mecca for cat lovers, complete with a shrine, cat-shaped houses and plenty of felines!

Japan, our thoughts are with Japan during this difficult time. We know you will implement the spirit of Kaizen and not only overcome this tragedy, but arise stronger than ever.