Pet in Danger

A bad storm is expected all along the east coast as it's Hurricane season.  And unfortunately, bad storms, nor'easters, hurricanes, and thunderstorms can pop up without a lot of warning.  

But, whether you live along the east coast or not, bad weather of some kind eventually comes your way.  This could be a good time regardless of where you live to put together a preparedness kit so that you're ready when you may not have much time to either evacate or take cover.  

BEFORE THE DISASTER

• Microchip your pet as a pet collar could fall off.

• Make sure that your pets are up to date on their vaccinations.  Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.  Have a platic baggie with a copy of their shots records in it.

• Have a current photograph in your purse or wallet at all times

• Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet near your door and in your car.  Also keep several cans of dog food that open with a pull tab and bottled water in your vehicle and your basement or secure area you'd go too for cover.  Have plastic baggies on hand for clean up and baby wipes.

• Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand  and turn around.  Keep some in your basement so when you head there fast, you're not scrambling to set one up.   If it's always there with your pets bedding, your pet will be more comfortable in an enclosed space and famaliar smells. 

• Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet!  Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.  Know who's house you would always head to for dryer ground or which hotel or shelter.  The more you have written down or agreed upon in advance, the less stressful it'll all be. 

If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.

DURING THE DISASTER

• Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have:  Proper identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and news papers or trash bags for clean-up.

• Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.

• Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis.  Call ahead and determine availability.

AFTER THE DISASTER

• Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost.  Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.

• If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered.  Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.

• After a disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

Don't forget your pet when preparing a family disaster plan.

PET DISASTER SUPPLY KIT
Label the kit and inform everyone in the family where it's located.  Items to place in or near your kit include:

• Copies of immunization records in a waterproof baggie
• Ample supply of pop top canned or dry food and bottled water (7 days suggested and rotate every few months)
•  A carrier or sturdy cage with liners
•  Medications (a two week supply)
•  Muzzle, leash, and collar with tags of your current cell number

• Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
• Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
• Flashlight
• Blanket
• Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)

ADDITIONAL LINKS

• The HUMANE SOCIETY Disaster Center
• FEMA - Animals and Emergencies