Gold Award Project Tackles Rising Pet Dangers from Toads, Gators, Heat, & More
Turning Passion into Purpose
April was National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, but for local Girl Scout Anneliese Hsiao, every month is an opportunity to protect the pets she loves. A high school junior in the pre-medical program at American Heritage School in Plantation, Anneliese has always dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. When a friend’s dog was poisoned by a bufo toad a toxic invasive species common in South Florida, she turned her concern into action.
After conducting science fair research on affordable treatment options for canine bufo poisoning, Anneliese’s interest deepened. Then, when another friend’s puppy drowned in a backyard pool, she began investigating other local pet hazards. Her findings were eye-opening: up to 30% of pet deaths are preventable. That knowledge inspired her to create a community education campaign as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, the highest honor in Girl Scouting.
Creating Tools That Save Lives
Anneliese partnered with the Humane Society of Broward County (HSBC), where she has volunteered for over five years, to create a pet safety booklet focused on South Florida-specific risks—dangers not often covered in national pet care guides. The booklet includes guidance on how to respond to poisoning, heatstroke, wildlife encounters, and storm emergencies. Reviewed for accuracy by HSBC veterinarian Dr. Cynthia Rogers, the guide is now distributed with every new adoption through HSBC.
To cover printing costs, Anneliese turned to the community, enlisting sponsors to help fund 500 copies. She also launched a digital version available for free via her Instagram account, @PetSafety.SouthFL. Since then, she has shared the booklet at community events, local businesses, and pet-friendly spaces.
The guide proved its value instantly. The same day it went to print, her own terrier, Matcha, encountered a bufo toad in the backyard. Foaming at the mouth and in distress, Matcha was minutes from death. Thanks to her research, Anneliese knew exactly what to do—rinsing his mouth, calling the emergency vet, and staying calm. Her quick action saved his life. “Most pet owners don’t know what to do in those first few minutes,” said the vet. “Many animals don’t make it.”
Building a Community of Future Pet Advocates
Anneliese’s campaign didn’t stop at education. Realizing that pet safety is also tied to the growing national shortage of veterinary professionals, she petitioned her school to launch the Future Vets Society—a student-led club to inspire more young people to pursue careers in animal care.
Under her leadership, the club has toured veterinary clinics, volunteered at pet events, and welcomed speakers such as Dr. Alyssa Dayton from HSBC and Dr. Jan Bellows, a pioneer in veterinary dentistry.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. This spring, Anneliese was awarded the Girl Scout Gold Award and was named District 3’s Scout of the Year. She also received the Barbara James Gold Service Award from HOSA Future Health Professionals and will represent Florida at their International Leadership Conference in June.
As for what’s next? Anneliese hopes to reach even more pet families. “These are simple tools that can save lives,” she says. “Every pet owner in South Florida deserves to have them.”
Download the guide and follow along at @PetSafety.SouthFL.
