Alone and Scared
Dear Frankie,
I always thought humans were a little dramatic when they talked about being overwhelmed and traumatized. That is until it happened to me.
Several weeks ago, my mom went grocery shopping. Usually, she leaves around 8 a.m. and is back by 11. When she didn’t come home by 1 o’clock, I started to get nervous. By 7, I was hysterical.
I knew in my heart something terrible had happened to her. I barked for as long as I could, but no one came.
The following day my mom’s friend finally showed up. She told me my mom had been in a car accident and was in the hospital with a head injury and couldn’t talk.
I asked, “Why didn’t you come yesterday? She said she had been at her cabin without a phone and got the message when she got home that morning.”
Frankie, isn’t there something the humans could do to prevent this from happening to other dogs?
Piper
Dear Piper,
What a terrible ordeal. I’m so sorry you were by yourself without knowing what had happened to your mom. I know what you mean about the humans saying every little thing overwhelms them, like when they can’t find their keys or they drop a gallon of juice on the floor. Is it a pain in the neck? Sure, but overwhelming? Come on.
Your experience, however, was a bona fide traumatic event. Yes, there is something that humans can do so this doesn’t happen to other dogs.
My mom has a card in the glove compartment attached to the car registration.
The card says, “In case of an accident, I have a dog at home alone, named Frankie.”
It lists my address, the names and contact information for two people, and a request that they take care of me in her absence. Please note the card lists two people so that if one can’t be contacted, like in your case, there is a backup person.
Thanks for writing in Piper and bringing attention to an issue for dogs or any other animal that is home alone that fortunately has a ready solution.
Best, Frankie
P.S. I was very impressed that you took the time to write to me about your experience. I’m sure it will motivate many dog parents to make an emergency card for their car and will ease the minds of many dogs that even in their parents’ absence, they are safe.
© 2021 Geneva Woodruff
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