Bonny & Jack say, "Don't forget about us!"

• Identification:  Your pets should have an ID tag with your current contact information on it.  Also make sure your veterinarian has your current contact information on file.  Consider microchiping your pet to help you reunite with your pet in case his collar gets lost if you are separated.

• Equipment:  Leashes, harnesses, and muzzles for larger dogs.  Crates, cages or carriers for smaller dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small pets.  Make sure all equipment is in good condition and that your emergency phone number is written on them in permanent ink. *      

• Supplies:  Be sure to keep enough food and water (and bowls) for your pets to last at least three days.  If you have a cat, also keep a supply of litter and litter box that can fit into your cat's carrier or enclosure.  Other useful items include towels, blankets, newspapers, trash bags, hand sanitizer, and a few toys.  Don't forget a first-aid kit and extra medications.

• Information:  Keep your pet's medical records and vet's contact information in a waterproof document bag or gallon freezer bag.  Include phone numbers for an emergency contact outside of your area in case you need to temporarily evacuate or relocate after the storm.   

If you choose to evacuate, take all your pets and make sure they are safely contained and secured in your vehicle with your supplies and equipment.     

If you choose to "hunker down," bring your pets indoors and confine them in a small, comfortable area away from windows where you can easily reach them.  Keep them leashed or in carriers if possible.  

After the storm, keep your pets confined while you check your home and property for damage and hazards.  Broken glass, roofing nails, and other debris are dangers to paws, and damaged fences or windows could allow escape, or stray animals in.  If your area has experienced flooding, sewage may also be a danger.   

Disruption of regular routines is stressful on people and pets alike.  If you notice behavior changes, loss of appetite, or other signs of stress that persist or become worrisome, contact your vet.    

For more information on disaster planning and preparation for pets, please visit the following links:

• Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services 
• HCPHES Veterinary Public Health 

*Consider training your dog to walk quietly on a leash.  Cats and other small animals should be familiarized with carriers.   

The HPD Gulfton Storefront hosted a Positive Interaction Program (PIP) meeting featuring Sgt. Craig Newman of the Houston Police Auto Theft Division giving advice and tips on preventing and deterring auto theft and burglary of a motor vehicle (BMV).   

It doesn't matter how new or old your car is.  Thieves look for cars and trucks that can be resold quickly or stripped for parts.  Thieves are looking for a opportunity and are less likely to target vehicles that will require more work to steal.   

• Take your keys.  Half of all vehicles stolen in Texas (about 50,0000 annually) are the result of drivers leaving the keys in the ignition.   
• Lock your car.  Approximately half of all stolen vehicles were left unlocked.   
• NEVER hide a spare set of keys in your car.  An experienced thief knows where people hide their keys.   
• Park in well-lit areas.  Thieves prefer unattended lots and dark areas.   
• If you use valet services, only leave your ignition key.  Don't give a parking attendant easy access to your glove box or trunk.  Upon returning to your vehicle, check to make sure your tires, spare, and battery are the same as when you parked.    
• Close your windows completely when parked.
• Don't leave belongings in sight.  Thieves don't care if something in your car is worth $0.05 or $500.  If you must leave belongings, hide them from sight.    
• Do not keep your vehicle registration, insurance documents, mail, or personal papers in the glove box.  In Texas, you will not be asked to produce your vehicle registration by law enforcement officials.  Many documents contain personal information that thieves can use to steal your identity or burglarize your home.   
• Avoid leaving your garage door opener in your car.  A thief can use it to gain entry to your home.

Above all, practice awareness and common sense safety.  Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.   

Fore more tips on vehicle safety and auto theft and burglary prevention, please visit the Texas Department of Transportation's website www.txwatchyourcar.com. 

Join the Houston Department of Health and Human Services and their community partners for the 6th Annual Hip Hop for HIV Awareness.  This year's events will be happening at two locations:

• Greenspoint Mall: July 9 - July 12, 10am - 6pm

• Sharpstown High School: July 30 - August 2, 10am - 5pm

Every 60 seconds, a person is diagnosed with HIV.  HIV is one of the leading causes of death in many communities throughout the Houston area.  In addition to HIV and AIDS education, free testing for HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases will be available to youth and young adults.    

This sixth annual event has received national recognition and honors, and last year's efforts marked Houston's HIP HOP for HIV Awareness event as the single largest HIV/STD testing initiative in the United States.  Raising awareness of these very serious infections is the main objective of the event. 

For more information on Hip Hop for HIV Awareness, please visit www.hiphopforhiv.com.