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October 29.2025

2 Minutes Read

Elderly Woman Chooses Love Over Safety Amid Hurricane: Empress and Police's Story

Left out in the storm - Elderly woman braves storm after shelter rejects her dog

In the Midst of a Storm: The True Story of Empress and Her Dog

As Hurricane Melissa wreaked havoc across Jamaica, an elderly woman named Empress chose to brave the storm rather than abandon her injured dog, Police. At 76 years old, her decision to face fierce winds and rain illustrates not only her loyalty to her furry friend but also brings to light a critical issue surrounding disaster preparedness and the treatment of animals.

A Dilemma in Disaster Response

Many shelters across Jamaica have strict no-pet policies, which put families like Empress’s in dire situations during emergencies. "They said I cannot come into the shelter with my pet, so I decided to go out on the street and stay there then," she explained. This policy fails to recognize the emotional bond many pet owners have with their animals and creates a choice that no one should have to make: safety for oneself or safety for a loved companion.

More than Just a Pet: A Human Connection

For Empress, her dog is part of her family—a notion echoed throughout many cultural narratives. She remarked, "I like dogs just as much as I like people, or even more, because they are very reliable and have a whole lot of love in them." This perspective emphasizes the social value of animals in our lives, shifting the conversation from mere animal inclusion to acknowledging their essential roles as companions.

Lessons on Compassion

Emergencies often reveal the best and worst in human nature. Empress’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion—not only for fellow humans but also for all living beings. She has noticed the unfortunate reality that many people in Jamaica do not share her love for animals, stating that it's reflective of broader societal values. Her words resonate with a need for greater empathy and understanding, especially during trying times.

Moving Forward: Policy Change Needed

The response to natural disasters must adapt to the changing landscape of society, which includes recognizing pets as family members. Empress suggests that shelters should reconsider their pet policies, perhaps finding ways to accommodate those who have non-aggressive pets. "It’s better you don’t have them if you don’t care for them," she stated, underscoring the need for humane treatment of animals as a societal issue.

Conclusion: Reflection and Action

As we process the chaos of Hurricane Melissa, let us reflect on how we can create more inclusive and compassionate environments, especially in our disaster management systems. Empress’s loyalty to Police is an inspiring call for action. We must challenge existing norms and advocate for policies that recognize the importance of all living beings, especially during emergencies.

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