As we reach the midpoint of the fall and head toward the holidays, many folks in Missouri are about to be busier than they’ve been all year. With schedules getting faster and festive cheers growing louder, it’s common for seasonal distractions to increase everyone’s risk for accidents and injuries. Thankfully, a few simple reminders can help you stay safe. BE KIND TO ANIMALS — AND YOUR CAR. Increased traffic means that more drivers share the roads with wildlife. Collisions with animals rise sharply this time of year, with insurance claims for accidents involving animals hitting their annual peak in November. When a deer or other animal suddenly appears in a moving vehicle’s path, many drivers instinctively swerve to avoid a crash — which may lead them to lose control of their car and possibly hit a stationary object or another vehicle. Braking slowly and steadily is always the best way to avoid colliding with an animal on the road. If an accident is still unavoidable, reducing your vehicle’s speed can minimize damage or physical harm. PROTECT YOUR PRECIOUS CARGO. With all the rushing around people do these days, all it takes is a single mistake to change lives forever. Never leave children alone in Fall Into Safer Dr QUICK REMINDERS BEF THE WINTER RUSH
FROM RESCUE TO RESCUER PANCHO’S INSPIRING STORY
In a heartwarming story of canine courage, a rescue dog named Pancho has emerged as a hero after putting his life on the line to defend his family during a home invasion. The events unfolded on a fateful night in early June when an intruder broke into Pancho’s home in northern New Mexico. Pancho, an 8-year-old rescue pup, sprang into action the moment the intruder entered the home. Without hesitation, the brave dog leaped at the would-be criminal, determined to protect his family at all costs. In the ensuing struggle, Pancho suffered a deep neck wound that miraculously missed his vital organs. But the attack didn’t stop there — the intruder then proceeded to kick Pancho repeatedly. Undeterred by his injuries, Pancho managed to hold the intruder at bay until others could intervene and restrain the criminal. Pancho’s family then embarked on a desperate two-hour journey to Albuquerque, searching for emergency veterinary care. Remarkably, the family ended up at the doorstep of Española Humane, the same rescue organization where they had adopted Pancho. The dedicated staff immediately sprang into action, performing extensive surgery to clean and repair Pancho’s traumatic neck wound. The brave pup stopped breathing at one point, but the veterinary team successfully revived him. Despite his severe injuries, Pancho has steadily regained his strength. His tail never stops wagging, and he responds enthusiastically whenever he hears the words “good boy.” Pancho’s dad promised him a lifetime of rib-eye steaks to reward his heroic actions. Pancho’s story is a powerful reminder of the unwavering loyalty and bravery rescue animals can possess. If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, consider visiting your local animal shelter or rescue organization. You never know — you might just find your very own guardian angel, just like Pancho’s family did.
Alternative Activities for Spooky Season For many children (and those still young at heart), Halloween is a fun- filled time for dressing up, visiting neighbors, and ushering in the official start of the holiday season — easily making it one of the country’s most celebrated fall family traditions. The Kansas City Metropolitan area proudly hosts an array of events that build on the holiday in new and exciting ways. Beyond BOO!
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