COLUMBIA, S.C. — At PAALS, your dog's safety during inclement weather is our top priority because every paw has a purpose. This facility has carefully thought out procedures in place to ensure the safety of future service dogs.
PAALS stands for Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services, whose mission is to train and provide service dogs for a variety of functional needs. PAALS Executive Director Melissa Payne said safety is taken very seriously at the facility.
“For example, if we know there's a tornado watch, we'll monitor the weather. Once we know it's changed to a warning, we'll have all of our trainers take their dogs and actually move them to an indoor space within the building away from windows.” We're going to move the dog to,'' Payne said.
A designated safe space is a must in case of inclement weather. Just like PAALS, we all need to have emergency kits for ourselves, our families, and our pets.
Mr Payne said: “In case they don't have water or there's a bottle of water in there. We also have toys. We have treats for them. Everything they really need is there. If there is an accident with the supplies, we clean it up.”
During PAALS training, dogs are exposed to various stimuli, including storms. This training will help you stay calm and focused even in difficult situations.
As spring and tornado season approach, remember that preparation is key.
