It's that time of year again. For those of us that live on the Coast, we need to begin making preparations for any potential Hurricane Evacuations. Since Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, we have learned that not many people make necessary evacuation plans for their pets.
According to the Miami Herald,
After Andrew (South Florida), we vets saw our share of disaster cases. The large animal vets had it worst, with drowned horses and unsecured barns. The proliferation of strays led us to believe that many small pets were left out in the elements. Animal cruelty is illegal (and that includes failure to secure your pets during a storm), but it's largely unenforceable in a post-hurricane world.
If Katrina (Gulf Coast) has taught pet owners anything, it's that no place is 100 percent safe in a Category 5 storm. Evacuation is the only fail-safe solution for you and your pets. But there are things you can do for them if you plan to stay.
If you live in a potential area for Hurricane Evacuation, there are preparations you can take now to make sure you can evacuate with your pet.
Contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.Don't wait until it is too late. Make your preparations now, and your pet will thank you for it!
Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
Have a current photograph
Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
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.
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
Proper identification including immunization records
Ample supply of food and water
A carrier or cage
Medications
Muzzle, collar and leash
For additional information on Preparing for Hurricane Evacuations with your Pet, visit the Humane Society of the United States' website.
Hurricane | Evacuation | Prepare
Katrina | Andrew | Dog
Shelter | Humane Society | Pet
Pet Friendly | Cody | Havana | Doghouse Properties
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