Tsunami Warning Feb 2010

I am sure everyone has heard about the earthquake in Chile. My heart goes out to the victims of this disaster as they search for their families, friends and animals. What you may not have heard, is that because of the earthquake, a tsunami warning was issued throughout the Pacific. Boy did it ever wake us up!

At 3:30 in the morning on Saturday, we received multiple phone calls warning us about the possibility of a tsunami. I called the police to confirm and we were grateful for the five-hour warning. Laura (veterinarian) and I were the only two staying at the EHF residence and it was up to us to get all the patients and other animals in our care to higher ground and to pack the essentials for ourselves.

Blessed as we are, we were caring for fewer animals than usual and could transport the twenty dogs and cats in 12 cages and take a few on leads. I called Nan Hauser, our local whale researcher, who had generously offered her house in the past when cyclones threatened the island. We didn't have a vehicle large enough to move all the animals at once but Nan’s partner, Brown Apera, offered his truck and his help. Kevin Rowell, a local supporter, also kindly joined the effort. It took two trips for all of us to complete the move and we saw many fully loaded vehicles heading up various hills just as we were. (I saw a picture yesterday of the hospital on the hill surrounded by people and their cars.)

By 7am, we had delivered all of the animals to safety at Nan's wonderful home. Craig the clinic cat doesn't like being in cages so he was allowed to stay in the car curled up on our bags. One of our patients, Rocko, a big fish poisoned dog, needed to continue his supportive care no matter where we were located and we set up a drip IV line. Laura did a great job taking care of Rocko in spite of his love of chewing through his catheters. (Fortunately, this one lasted until we returned home.)

Nan was more than accommodating to all her guests. She offered us breakfast while welcoming more people seeking refuge. The plan was to watch the sea from the top of a hill as the tsunami rolled in, but there really wasn’t much to see. We waited for the “all clear” before we decided to take the animals home. We later learned that the tsunami didn't amount to much here and we are definitely thankful for that.

Returning all the animals to the clinic was made easier by the addition of yet another truck and helper, Huw John from Reef Sub, who was also staying at Nan's to escape the possible Tsunami.

This tsunami drill provided the unexpected opportunity to clean behind all the cages and now the area is spic and span thanks to veterinarians Sula and Laura who accomplished this chore (after they too were awakened around 3:30am.) and also worked a full day at the clinic (which was pretty busy for a Saturday) before falling into bed exhausted. Thanks guys for your extraordinary work!!!

A great deal of gratitude also goes out to all those who helped us in the transport and temporary housing of these animals. You have shown a true kindness.

Blessings to those in Chile who will be recovering from this disaster for months and years to come.

Photos were taken by Nan. Thanks Nan!!!