Making pet care a little less 'ruff'

For Seaford Girl Scout Bridget Mulder, earning her Silver Award is much more then just a patch on her vest. It is a milestone in her scouting journey. After brainstorming various ideas for her project, Mulder, 14, decided to research on what she likes best — animals. For many people, taking care of a pet can be a little rough, but with Mulder’s pet preparedness presentation, pet owners everywhere will know what to do in case of an emergency.

“It has to have a lasting impact on the community,” Mulder said about her project. “So after looking online and researching different websites, I found out a lot of stuff you need beforehand to be ready.” 

With more than a dozen orange “pet pouches,” by her side, Mulder plans on presenting her project at the Seaford Public Library on Saturday for those in the community. “I’m going to hand out these bags after my presentation, which also have lists of everything you might need to take care of your pet,” she said.

On Mulder’s emergency list, items such as food and water bowls, a litter box for cats, plastic bags for dogs, rabies documentation, medication, a sturdy leash and bedding were included. In the presentation, Mulder will go into detail about the specifics and why these kits are so important during a natural disaster.

“You also need to have a heating pad or heat source for your pet,” Mulder said. “I have two bearded dragons and they need that to live.”

With help from her family and scout leader, Mulder was able to set up a time to present her project to the library this week. When it comes to support, there is definitely an abundance of it for the Scout, especially from her mother, Theresa Mulder.

“I think the most important thing I’ve done is try and show her by example of how to give back to others,” Theresa Mulder said. “Unless you actually go out and do it yourself, it doesn’t really show a lasting impact.”

By driving her daughter to meetings, helping with the details of her project and teaching second-grade at St. William the Abbot Church in Seaford, Theresa Mulder has been able to keep Bridget involved in all aspects of the community.