Fred the Preparedness Dog - Emeritus

23/02/2025

It’s with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Fred. Fred’s cancer returned a few weeks ago in his jaw and spread into his insides. He spent his last few weeks resting comfortably at home with our family, enjoying his favorite snacks--hot dogs and homemade pup cups--and passed away peacefully in the hugs of his family. Fred was buried on the family ranch with his brothers Toby and Flynn, where they can all enjoy the sunsets together.

Thank you all for letting Fred be a part of your life and preparedness journey. The memories that I will carry of Fred meeting the children across Kansas will stay with me forever.

- Michael “leash guy” and family

11/02/2025

Looks like we're going to get another snowy winter storm. We got our preparedness stuff and don't plan on going out. But if you have to, remember to not crowd the plow. Big thank you to all those snow plow drivers, first responders, highway patrol, and emergency management staff! Be safe. - Fred

Kansas Department of Transportation, Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Division of Emergency Management, Kansas Department of Health and Environment

05/01/2025

Lots of snow and it’s still coming. Everyone stay home and let’s be safe. This let’s Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Department of Transportation, Shawnee County Sheriff's Office, and others keep us all safe. And… thanks to all the highway folks and first responders. We appreciate you! - Fred

25/12/2024

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to everyone! Got some new squeaky toys in my stocking. I hope everyone has a safe season. - Fred

28/10/2024

A chance to learn some more good preparedness ideas. - Fred

Join KDEM and the KS State Animal Response Team on Microsoft Teams for a virtual chat at 7PM TODAY, October 28th, about Disaster Preparedness and Pets! Meeting ID: 223 467 241 501, Passcode: gcUdZG or Dial in by phone 1 785-414-8630, Phone conference ID: 116 845 661 #

08/07/2024

Stopped in to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to say hi this afternoon. Even dressed up in a tie for the occasion. Got to love the retired life. My surgery wound is all healed and slowly working the rehab. -Fred

28/06/2024

It's that time of year again, Independence Day! Great times but the fireworks can be a little much. Make sure your pets are prepared with microchips, wearing their collars, and taking the outside trips a little earlier before the evening's festivities. And people, be safe around fireworks because NO ONE wants to go to the hospital. Watch the kiddos and follow the firework safety guides. Most of all, have fun and celebrate! - Fred

21/05/2024

Let’s talk healthy preparedness. While playing with Leash Guy, we noticed a lump on my leg. Set a doctor’s appointment and found out I had a cancer mass. It looks like that was the only area and it hadn’t spread to my lungs or anything. Today I had surgery to remove the mass. All went well and I’m back home resting.

You should always take notice if there is something that doesn’t feel or look right. Knowing what’s normal for you is important and then explaining it to your healthcare provider. Be safe, be prepared. -Fred

30/04/2024

Quick walk before this storm. Have your kit and stay weather aware. -Fred

06/03/2024

Its statewide tornado drill day at 11:00 a.m. in Kansas today. Are you participating? - Fred