Earthquake tremors in Morris County didn't alert this writer's pet

Emma didn't have a clue that anything was happening.

Yesterday's earthquake along the east coast brought to mind the long-standing question as to whether animals can sense pending disasters. If I had to base it on my pet's lack of response to the tremors felt in the Morris County area yesterday, I'd have to say "no."

Because animals have keen senses, researchers suspect they may possess the ability to detect earthquakes. Studies have been conducted on the detection of earthquakes by animals, but to date there has been no conclusive evidence to support animals having the ability to sense the earth's vibrations.

Other researchers are skeptical about using animals as earthquake and natural disaster detectors. They site the difficulty of developing a controlled study that can connect a specific animal behavior with an earthquake occurrence.

Whether or not our pets can detect natural disasters is of little importance. As animal lovers, we're just happy to have them around as a source of comfort during difficult times.

For those looking for that kind of companionship, adoption events always are the best way to find a new pet. The Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound have some planned. Each event will feature kittens. Mark these dates on your calendar:

Suzy Mae, is one of two kittens, sister and brother, that will be available for adoption.

Saturday, Aug. 27: 11 am. to 1 p.m. at Pet Valu, 84 E. Main St., Mendham.

Saturday, Sept. 3: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Randolph Animal Pound, 1345 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph. This "Black Cat Special" will have an adoption fee of $25 for any black cat or kitten (even those with just a spot of black on their fur). There is an additional spay/neuter deposit for young kittens. Adopt two pets (of any color) and the adoption fee will be waived for the second pet.

The Randolph Animal Pound is open for adoptions during its regular hours: Weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays. For more information, call 973-886-1485 or e-mail Doggie54@optonline.net.