Adopt a Catch Basin: Join The City of Hollywood to Help Control Flooding June 8, 2023 Share Now that we are in the rainy season, frequent heavy rainstorms increases the potential for localized flooding. City of Hollywood crews work to keep the more than 157 miles of underground storm system piping and 4900 catch basins clean. Residents can also do their part by pitching in to help control flooding in and around their neighborhood by adopting their own catch basin. The adoption is easy - just sign-up to adopt, take a look at the basin at least once a month and clean it as needed. Then submit proof of your efforts. In doing so, you can earn points for rewards for helping to prevent flooding and waterway pollution. Help to make a real difference in your neighborhood, sign up today: www.hollywoodfl.org/1460/Adopt-A-Catch-Basin-Program You can also reduce the amount of debris that flows into the storm drain system by throwing coconuts into your garbage cart for collection, and ensuring your lawn clippings and yard waste is properly disposed. For catch basin issues in the City of Hollywood, please call the Underground Utilities Division at: 954.921.3046. Flood Safety Tips Call 911 if floodwater impacts your home and creates an emergency situation such as a fire. • Report a storm water issue by calling: 954.921.3046. This is the same number to call to report issues after hours, on weekends and holidays. • Report street-level flooding that makes roads impassable by calling: 954.764.4357. • Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Remember, "Turn Around, Don't Drown." • Use caution with electrical appliances, electrical cords and outlets if floodwaters have entered your home. Residents should not wade in standing flood water, which can contain contaminants. Following a heavy storm, sharp debris and other items from overturned garbage bins could be hidden in the water and cause injury. Standing water also may contain harmful bacteria that could cause infection. Children and pets should not be allowed to play in flood water. Additional information about storm water flooding can be found at: www.hollywoodfl.org/103/Stormwater. The 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season is underway. Finalize your storm plans now so you are prepared. The season runs through November 30th and the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday runs through June 9th. Take a moment to view the storm surge video so you can factor it into your preparation planning. Resources Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday: http://ow.ly/ywyT50OB8hl Surviving Storm Surge: https://youtu.be/YBrBtzmMgFI Meet Tom and hear his story: https://youtu.be/pQ2M5q241V8 Meet Jim and here his story: https://youtu.be/rlWRF0KWwJk What you need to prepare: https://youtu.be/czf4HnVmrCs < Previous News Next News >

Catch The Ultimate July Celebration: Post Game Fireworks Show July 3 & Red White & Brew on July 4th Thu Jun 29 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Year of The "Shovel": The State Of The City Part V Thu Jul 06 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The City Of Aventura Celebrates Its 28th Annual Founders Day November 9, 2023 Share The City of Aventura proudly celebrates the 28th anniversary of incorporation on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at the Annual Founders Day Celebration. To honor this important milestone, the City invites residents and members of the community to enjoy this family-friendly celebration. The festivities take place from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Gulfstream Park located at 901 South Federal Highway. Celebrate amidst stilt walkers, jugglers, characters, activities, food, and pure entertainment! Enjoy a beautiful day outdoors participating in fun games, getting creative at the interactive art and science stations, while sharing some of the excitement with your little ones at Toddler Town. Relax under the dining tents while catching a game of football on HDTVs, feast on good food from fantastic food trucks, enjoy dazzling performances on the community stage during the Aventura STAR talent competition, and so much more! The entrance to the event will be located northbound on Biscayne Boulevard. Free parking will be available at Gulfstream Park just north of the event’s location. Aventura Express In order to accommodate parking and traffic in the area, the Aventura Express is a great way to safely get to and from Gulfstream Park. The Aventura Express Shuttle Buses will operate a complimentary Founders Day schedule between all Aventura residential buildings and Gulfstream Park from 1:30 p.m. through 7:30 p.m. Ticket Reservations Ticket reservations are required for every individual and can be completed online only with a valid and existing account at: https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog - the City’s Online Registration System (ORS). Each individual in a household will be able to reserve 2 tickets for the event. Everyone including young children and babies is required to purchase a ticket. Tickets will be attached to your receipt upon completion of registration. In order to enter the event, you must pick up your wristbands at the Community Recreation Center PRIOR to the day of the event. To ensure a smooth and secure check-in process, one participant from the household account is required to bring the following items: Valid Photo ID: Please bring a government-issued photo ID (e.g., drivers’ license or passport) for identification purposes. Event Tickets: Make sure to have your event tickets ready, either in printed form or accessible on your mobile device. Please keep in mind that without both items listed above, your wristbands will NOT be distributed to you. Wristbands may be picked up on the following days and times: • November 10, 2023 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. • Friday, November 10, 2023 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Please keep in mind everyone entering the event MUST have their wristband on, including young children and babies. On the day of the event, each person must have their wristband on and be prepared to physically present it to enter the event. All tickets/wristbands are non-transferable and cannot be duplicated. Each ticket can only be scanned once and only one wristband will be provided per ticket scanned. For more information, visit: www.cityofaventura.com/foundersday - Or contact the Community Recreation Center at: (305) 466-3883. Or via email at: crcenter@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

Ukrainians Under Siege Wed Mar 02 2022 07:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Business For The Arts Broward To Host Inaugural Art Walls Mural Fest South Florida Sun Times Feb 19, 2026 Business For The Arts Broward (BFA), In Partnership With The Downtown Development Authority (DDA), Hosts The Inaugural BFA Art Walls Mural Fest, Presented By Wayne And Lucretia Weiner, A Free Two-Day, Community-Driven Celebration Of Art, Collaboration And Impact On Saturday, February 28th, 2026 And Sunday, March 1st, 2026 From 10:00 a.m. To 5:00 p.m. At History Fort Lauderdale, 231 Southwest Second Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Twelve local NonProfits will be paired with one of 12 established and emerging artists to create 8-foot-by-8-foot murals inspired by each organization’s mission. Additionally, youth from the participating nonprofits will paint their own murals as an interactive experience designed to foster creativity and artistic self-expression. The festivities kick off with a special BFA Art & Spirits presented by BBX Capital celebration on Thursday, February 26th, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the BBX Capital Gallery, a showcase of participating artists and organizations, with an exclusive liquor tasting and art exhibition with BFA’s sponsors and supporters. Tickets are available at: https://www.bfabroward.org/programs/art-and-spirits/ . “The BFA Art Walls Mural Fest is more than just an art show. It’s a platform where artistic expression intersects with community service,” said BFA Executive Director Robyn Vegas. “In a rapidly changing society, there is a vital need to expand access to the arts. By pairing talented artists with our local nonprofits, we are not only creating beautiful public art but also amplifying the missions of the organizations that make Fort Lauderdale thrive.” The selected NonProfits and artists are: • Art and Culture Center/Hollywood with Surge (Sergio Quinonez) • Art Prevails Project with Ashlee Sanford • Developing Dreams Foundation with Stefan Smith • Florida Children’s Theatre with BK Foxx • Inside Out Theatre Company with Luis Valle aka El Chan Guri • Museum of Discovery Science with Stephanie McMillan • New City Players with Private Murals • Old Davie School Museum with Gabby Shepherd • South Florida Pride Band with Mongo Art (Michael Andress) • South Florida Chamber Ensemble with Samara Ash • Stonewall National Museum & Archives with Nate Dee (Nathan Delinois) • Pompano Beach Arts Foundation with Ivan Roque In addition to the presenting sponsor, Wayne and Lucretia Weiner, BBX Capital, Crown Residential, Cathy and James Donnelly Fund at the Community Foundation of Broward, FPL, Broward Health Hospital, Transworld Business Advisors, Fort Lauderdale DDA, History Fort Lauderdale, Leadership Broward, MAD ARTS and Hoffman’s Chocolates are all sponsors. Participating artists will gain increased visibility and opportunities for professional growth, and participating organizations will be on hand to share information and opportunities to volunteer. For additional information, contact BFA’s Executive Director Robyn Vegas at: (954) 940-4933. Or: rvegas@bfabroward.org . Full event details are available at: https://bfabroward.org/programs/bfa-art-walls-mural-fest/ . About Business for the Arts Broward Business for the Arts Broward is a Not-For-Profit 501(c)(3) engaging businesses and business leaders to advocate and educate about the importance of the County’s art and cultural community as well as to recognize the connection between cultural vitality, creative success, and economic development. To learn more visit: www.Facebook.com/BFABroward . Or: www.bfabroward.org . Previous Next

Summertime Heats Up: Aventura's Happy Hour Scene With New Hotspots Wed Jul 20 2022 04:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Shadow & Maverick + Milo: This Two Member Crew With A Wingman Will Have Your Heart Soaring Thu Oct 12 2023 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

October Brings Tricks & Treats To The Parker With Culinary Battles, Rock Legends, Magic And More South Florida Sun Times Sep 24, 2025 This October, The Parker’s Lillian S. Wells Hall Is Serving Up Thrills That Will Have Audiences Stirring With Excitement Over MasterChef Face-Offs, Dancing To ABBA’s Greatest Hits, Rocking Out With Everclear, Reliving The Neon Glow Of The ’80s And So Much More. Audiences will embark on a culinary journey and experience the excitement of the MasterChef kitchen when MasterChef All-Stars Live! brings the heat, competition and culinary magic to The Parker on Thursday, October 2nd at 7:30 p.m. This brand-new, high-energy stage show delivers the ultimate MasterChef experience up close and personal with appearances from past winners such as Michael Leonard (Season 14) and Gerron Hurt (Season 9). In MasterChef All-Stars Live!, the chefs face off in head-to-head challenges, host Q&A sessions and inspire fans with tips and tricks to apply in their own kitchens. Audiences will enjoy candid conversations with the chefs about the thrill of competing in America’s famous kitchen under the scrutiny of the toughest judges. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime night of food, fun and fierce competition. Mamma Mia! This tribute to the Swedish pop sensation will have the audience dancing in the aisles during The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA at The Parker on Friday, October 3rd at 7:30 p.m. Known as "the closest thing to ABBA that you'll ever see," this band dazzles audiences with fantastic re-creations of ABBA's most iconic hits, including "Mamma Mia," "S.O.S," "Money, Money, Money," "The Winner Takes All," "Waterloo," "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" and "Dancing Queen." It's no coincidence that the official ABBA Fan Club has named this group "the best ABBA tribute band in the world." Everclear: Sparkle and Fade Tour celebrates its 30th Anniversary on Thursday, October 9th at 7:00 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series. The American rock band is joined by Local H and Sponge for a crossover to wow audiences. Everclear, led by Singer-Songwriter and Guitarist Art Alexakis, gained mainstream success in the late ‘90s and early 2000s with hits including "Santa Monica," "Father of Mine" and "Wonderful" by successfully blending alternative rock and post-grunge influences. American rock duo Local H is known for their grunge-influenced sound and high-energy live performances. Led by Vocalist/Guitarist Scott Lucas, they gained mainstream attention with their 1996 album “As Good as Dead,” featuring the hit "Bound for the Floor." American alternative rock band Sponge gained popularity with their debut album, “Rotting Piñata,” which featured hits like "Plowed" and "Molly (16 Candles Down the Drain).” Frontman Vinnie Dombroski remains the band's core member, keeping their legacy alive in the alternative and post-grunge scenes. Sing, dance and prepare to be Abducted by the ‘80s with Wang Chung and Men Without Hats on Thursday, October 16th at 7:30 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Baptist Health Red Carpet Series. Each a powerhouse Wang Chung and Men Without Hats have joined forces to create a musical extravaganza that transports audiences to the heart of the neon-soaked, synth-driven decade. Audiences will be moving, grooving and reliving the magic of the ‘80s with this unforgettable music tour, including mega-hits such as "Everybody Have Fun Tonight," "Dance Hall Days," " Don't Let's Go," "To Live and Die in L.A.," "Safety Dance" and "Pop Goes the World." Lee Asher, Founder of The Asher House, delivers a powerful and inspiring talk about his journey to save animals, inspire people and find his true purpose in life at The Parker on Saturday, October 18th at 4:00 p.m. A prominent figure in the animal rescue community with a massive social media following of more than 12 million people across platforms, Asher uses his influence to raise awareness about animal welfare and inspire countless individuals to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. With his infectious energy, humor and powerful storytelling, Asher continues to touch hearts and change lives, both human and animal alike. During his live show, he takes audiences on a rollercoaster of emotions as he recounts his struggles, failures and ultimate triumphs in building one of the largest animal sanctuaries in the United States. Presented by the Broward Center and AEG Presents, Hokus Pokus Live! (18+) conjures up a wickedly “spoopy,” fully scripted theatrical experience at The Parker on Sunday, October 19th at 8:00 p.m. Starring Ginger Minj, Jujubee and Sapphira Cristál as the legendary Sisters and featuring Landon Cider as Billy, this hauntingly hilarious, live spectacle comedy with powerhouse vocals and a dash of magic brings the cult classic to the stage like never before. This event contains adult language or content and is an 18+ only show. Valid ID required. Renowned Magician Bill Blagg takes audiences on a thrilling journey where physics and magic collide, using cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring tricks to defy the laws of nature in an electrifying stage show that blends mind-blowing illusions with the principles of science when Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic comes to The Parker for two shows on Tuesday, October 20th at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. as part of Nicklaus Children's Smart Stage Matinee Series. Designed to excite, educate, intrigue and promote students to think “outside the box” and spawn their curiosity about how science and the Scientific Method are used by magicians to create the impossible, Blagg takes audiences on a thrilling journey where physics and magic collide, using cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring tricks to defy the laws of nature. With captivating storytelling, humor and jaw-dropping feats, Blagg demonstrates how science plays a crucial role in the art of magic, leaving viewers in disbelief and wonder. These school-day performances are ideal for charter, private, public and parochial school students and home-school networks and are recommended for grades 3-7. These educational performances are curriculum-driven and align with Florida’s B.E.S.T. Standards. Free study guides called “Curriculum Connections” are available to download on the Broward Center’s website. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at The Parker Box Office. Grammy-Winning Singer-Songwriter Macy Gray brings her one-of-a-kind voice to The Parker with her “On How Life Is 25th Anniversary Tour” on Thursday, October 23 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Baptist Health Red Carpet Series. Gray first turned heads with her debut album, “On How Life Is,” where her raspy, soulful, and instantly recognizable voice became her signature. Once teased as a child for her distinctive sound, Gray nearly gave up speaking altogether, only later discovering her gift when she stepped to a microphone and stunned a studio into silence. Her vocals defy comparison: playful yet gritty, tender yet raw, drawing parallels to icons from Tina Turner to Billie Holiday, while remaining uniquely her own. Paired with sharp, witty songwriting and a vibrant blend of old-school soul, funk and modern hip-hop, Gray carved out a space in music that is both timeless and fresh. With undeniable charisma and originality, she continues to prove her artistry is as distinctive as her unforgettable voice. Audiences are in for an awesome night of Rock-And-Roll when Orianthi brings her undeniable talent to The Parker on Friday, October 24th at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series. Australian-born Orianthi Panagaris is a virtuoso performer whose sound is steeped in hard rock traditions. The rock, blues and pop guitarist and singer is known for "According to You" and her role as Michael Jackson’s lead guitarist. Previously, she’s worked with the likes of Santana, Steve Vai and Alice Cooper. Throughout her career she’s released four studio albums and an EP as a solo artist. Award-winning performer, charming socialite and cocktail enthusiast Lucy Darling brings her touring variety show “You’re Welcome” to The Parker on Thursday, October 30th at 8:00 p.m. as part of the Truist Comedy Series. Featuring Darling’s razor-sharp wit, unquestionable advice, skillful magic and delightful friends, “You're Welcome” is more than just a tour. It's a reunion of people who have not yet met, a party for every member of the Darling family tree. Darling is accompanied on piano, ukulele and a cornucopia of other instruments by the delightfully eccentric Mark Ettinger (musician, composer and renowned globe-trotting juggler with the legendary Flying Karamazov Brothers). This charming duo’s playful banter and effortless chemistry dazzles and enchants audiences everywhere they go, resulting in sold-out appearances and a growing legion of devoted “Darlings.” Los Angeles-based Strangelove: The Depeche Mode Experience delivers a career-spanning, pitch-perfect “best of” concert that transports listeners through time and touches on key moments from Depeche Mode’s more than 40-year career. The Broward Center and REG Presents bring this incredible mash-up with Strangelove and Ordinary Boys to The Parker on Friday, October 31st at 7:30 p.m. Songs from across the Depeche canon are lovingly recreated — from favorites on the band’s debut, “Speak & Spell,” to tracks from its latest album, “Spirit,” released in 2017. No detail of Strangelove’s presentation is overlooked. The visual production, complete with stage set pieces and in-show costume changes, reflects the different eras of Depeche Mode’s history. Special guest Ordinary Boys, formed in 2010, is a tribute band dedicated to the music of Morrissey and The Smiths. Named after a track from Morrissey's “Viva Hate,” the band quickly gained a loyal following with energetic performances across Florida. With evolving lineups and a focus on authenticity, the group delivers a powerful live experience featuring hits such as “How Soon Is Now?,” “This Charming Man” and “Irish Blood, English Heart.” Also at The Parker this month: South Florida Symphony Orchestra: Brahms & Saint-Saëns on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Parker 2025/2026 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org . About The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com . Previous Next

What's Another Trillion: Understanding the National Debt in Real Terms June 8, 2023 Share In an era of economic uncertainty and mounting financial challenges, the specter of the National Debt looms large over our nation's future. As the debt continues to soar to unprecedented levels, it is imperative for policymakers and citizens alike to recognize the potential implications and take decisive action to curtail spending. This article delves into the importance of cutting spending, exploring the long-term consequences of an escalating National Debt and outlining the steps needed to safeguard our country's financial stability. Understanding the National Debt The National Debt represents the accumulated borrowing by the government to finance its expenditures over time. It is the result of budget deficits, wherein government spending surpasses revenue each year, leading to the issuance of Treasury Bonds and other forms of debt instruments. As of 2022, Japan owned $1.08 Trillion in U.S. Debt, making it the largest foreign holder of the National Debt. The second-largest holder is China, which owns $870 Billion of U.S. Debt. Both Japan and China want to keep the value of the dollar higher than the value of their own currencies. This helps to keep their exports to the U.S. affordable, which helps their economies grow. The magnitude of the debt has reached staggering proportions, with figures surpassing Trillions of Dollars, $31.41 Trillion as of January 2023, leaving an ever-increasing burden on future generations. As an example, if a median-income American ($70,784) family spent money like the U.S. Government, it would have spent all of its earnings, and then put nearly $20,000 on the credit card in 2022, even though it was already $447,000 in debt. The Implications of Rising Debt Economic Stability at Stake: The National Debt's significance lies in its potential to destabilize the economy. As the debt grows, it puts upward pressure on interest rates, making it more expensive for individuals, businesses, and the government itself to borrow money. Higher interest rates can dampen economic growth, hampering investment and job creation. Reduced Fiscal Flexibility: A ballooning National Debt limits the government's ability to respond effectively to future crises. When a significant portion of the budget is allocated to servicing debt, it leaves fewer resources available for vital public investments such as Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure and National Defense. This hampers the government's ability to address emerging challenges and stifles Long-Term Economic Progress. Burden on Future Generations: Saddling future generations with an overwhelming Debt Burden is both ethically questionable and economically unsustainable. As interest payments rise, more of the Federal Budget will be allocated towards servicing the debt, diverting funds away from critical programs and services. This intergenerational transfer of financial obligations risks impeding the prosperity and opportunities available to future citizens. The Urgency to Cut Spending Long-Term Fiscal Responsibility: Cutting spending is an essential step towards ensuring long-term fiscal responsibility. By adopting prudent budgetary measures, the government can rein in unnecessary expenditures, promote efficiency, and prioritize investments that yield the greatest returns. Responsible spending practices will help mitigate the accumulation of debt and foster a sustainable financial trajectory. Encouraging Economic Growth: Reducing the National Debt through spending cuts can foster a favorable economic environment. As the government's demand for borrowing decreases, interest rates can stabilize, allowing businesses and individuals to access capital at more affordable rates. Lower interest rates stimulate investment, fuel job creation, and promote overall economic growth. Preserving Social Programs: Taking steps to cut spending now will help preserve essential social programs in the future. By addressing the root causes of the debt, such as inefficient spending and redundant programs, the government can allocate resources more effectively. This ensures that vital safety nets, including healthcare, social security, and education, can be sustained without sacrificing quality or accessibility. Enhancing International Confidence: A nation burdened by an ever-growing debt may face reduced confidence from international markets. Maintaining fiscal discipline and making tangible efforts to reduce the National Debt signal to investors and Credit Rating Agencies that the country is committed to its financial stability. This confidence can attract foreign investment, support the currency's strength, and contribute to overall economic resilience. As our nation grapples with the weight of an escalating National Debt, the imperative to cut spending cannot be overstated. Failure to address this pressing issue risks undermining Economic Stability, curtailing fiscal flexibility, and burdening future generations with insurmountable financial obligations. By prioritizing responsible budgetary measures, we can steer our country towards a sustainable and prosperous future. It is high time that policymakers and citizens alike embrace the urgency of cutting spending and act decisively to safeguard our nation's financial well-being. < Previous News Next News >

Attention ‘Sea Foodies’: The South Beach Seafood Festival Is Back Thu Jul 07 2022 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Bone Voyage June 3, 2021 Share International Travel With Pets As summer approaches and the promise of widespread COVID-19 vaccination becomes more hopeful, those with cabin fever may be planning exciting vacations abroad after spending the past year in their homes. If pet parents are considering a vacation overseas and intend to bring their animal, they should plan for their furry friend far in advance and do ample research, according to Dr. Christine Rutter, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “Travel outside of the continental U.S. has specific rules, certifications, and, potentially, vaccination requirements,” Rutter said. “Some international travel requires preparation up to six months in advance and/or a quarantine period. Each country is different, so it will require some leg-work on the part of your certifying veterinarian to make sure you are in compliance.” Pet owners should visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) website to review country-specific requirements for pet travel. Their pet resource page may help to answer many owner questions. Most countries require that your pet be checked by a federally accredited veterinarian and that a United States Interstate and International Certificate for Health Examination for Small Animals (7001 USDA-APHIS Form) be issued by that veterinarian and end-orsed by the USDA. Before considering traveling with a pet, owners should consult their veterinary practice and see if any veterinarians there have experience providing documentation for international travel. It is also important to check with your local USDA Service Center to ensure that your veterinarian is USDA accredited. If they are not endorsed by the USDA, the paperwork they provide will not be valid. The timetable for examination statements and certifications can be very tight, so owners should plan well in advance and ask questions of the relevant authorities to be sure all required paperwork is complete in time for your trip. In addition to submitting required paperwork to the relevant agencies, owners may also want to keep paper copies of this documentation on-hand during their travel. “Have a digital or hard copy of your pet’s vaccination history (including rabies certificate), microchip number, medications, and health records, if they have chronic illnesses or have had major surgeries,” Rutter said. “Ask your veterinarian what records she/he recommends you take with you in case your family vet’s office is closed (if they are needed while you’re abroad).” You may also need to get your pet a rabies vaccine booster and/or have rabies antibody titers checked prior to traveling to a country considered to be high-risk for rabies. Although the U.S. recognizes three-year rabies vaccinations, some countries require annual rabies immunization. Foreign nations may also require a quarantine period after your arrival. It’s best to check with the local government prior to your arrival to avoid any unwanted surprises. For a long international flight, it’s also a good idea to have your veterinarian perform a check-up to confirm your pet is healthy enough to fly, and while there, you may consider asking about medication that may help your furry friend during the stress of travel. “If your pet struggles with anxiety or motion sickness, ask your veterinarian how to best manage your pet’s needs during travel,” Rutter said. “This is probably a needed conversation if your pet has never traveled before or if your pet has fireworks phobia.” Owners should also research the different facilities they will be stopping at on their journey to see what amenities are offered for pets, especially in terms of their bathroom needs. “Most airports have a ‘pet relief’ area, and many have one in the air-side terminal. Do a little cyber-sleuthing or ask an airline representative where to find it. Nervous bladders may need to ‘go’ a bit more often, and a walk is good to settle the mind,” Rutter said. “Be sure your pet wears a collar or harness with a tag at all times while traveling in case of escapes. Outside of their normal environments, pets can become fearful or excited and bolt.” Rutter also recommends having pet necessities on-hand for the duration of your travel. “Carry waste bags, water, time-sensitive medications, and at least a small portion of your pet’s food on hand,” she said. “I also carry a cheap set of medical exam gloves (purchased over the counter) in case things get messy.” It is also important to ensure that the appropriate arrangements have been made to accommodate your pet. Confirm with your lodging that animals are allowed, research nearby veterinary care facilities you can contact in case your pet has an emergency while on your trip, and have a plan for either bringing needed pet supplies with you or confirming that nearby stores carry the essentials your pet needs. “If you have activities planned during your trip, can your pet go with you or stay at your lodging location unattended? Many hotels and rentals will allow your pets to stay with you but do not allow pets to stay unattended while you are away,” Rutter said. It may also be beneficial to research the local cultural attitudes surrounding pets. Some countries may be more lenient about allowing pets in public areas than others. Taking a pet abroad is a considerable endeavor, and it’s important to do ample research and plan in advance to avoid unwanted surprises and ensure your animal’s well-being. With the help of an experienced veterinarian and the right preparations, owners can determine the best option for their pet as they embark on their next adventure. < Previous News Next News >