DISASTER TIPS FOR YOUR PETS

Disasters can happen to anyone and anytime.

Pets should be included in any and all disaster planning you have for your family. Never assume they can "fend" for themselves.

The hurricane that destroyed New Orleans left Animal Welfare Organizations scrambling for a better disaster plan. Many revisions were made, and shelters, humane societies and rescues across the country have made provisions to accommodate our pets in case of a disaster.

But the best chance your pet has to stay alive, is to remain with you. Below are some safety and planning tips for your family that INCLUDE your pets.

Don't think it can't happen to you! Disaster can strike anytime, anywhere and happens in a few seconds.

Be prepared. Make the commitment to prepare for your WHOLE family, including your furry companions!

• Take your pets with you! Pets that are released or left behind often become victims of flood waters, contaminated food or water, or exposure to the elements. Never assume somebody else will save their lives or that they can fend for themselves.
• Make sure your pets have waterproof ID tags on them.
• Make sure and have a "supply" kit ready, including water, food, litter box. A three week supply is recommended.
• Proof of current vaccinations will be required for housing your pets in many rescue facilities. Make sure you have copies stored in a waterproof container in an emergency kit that you can grab and take with you.
• Maintain current photos of your property and your pets..
• Place pet rescue decals on a window or door to alert rescue personnel to the number of pets that may need rescued inside your home or on your property.
• Make sure you have a back up plan in case you and your pets become separated. Ask a friend, family member or co-worker if they could care for your pets until you can get back on your feet.
• NEVER tether or restrain animals when floods waters threaten your area. NEVER leave a pet behind tethered, caged or restrained in any form.
• Check for evacuation plans at your local shelter, humane society, veterinarian, boarding facility, stable and/or form a network with other facilities.
• Storm surges and flood threats mean that you need to provide a way for your pets to escape and climb to safety. This does not mean turning them loose! Make sure livestock have access to higher ground.
• Use wire crates to transport and house smaller animals since they provide better ventilation and fold up easily for storage and transport. Fleece makes for warm bedding and dry's quickly.
• Don't create a hazard by trying to forge through flooded streets with moving water. Both you and/or your pet can become victims of rising flood waters.
• Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to return. Once allowed back onto your property, make sure it's safe for your pets as well. Debris, for example, from tornadoes can leave behind pieces of glass and metal injuring your pet and/or your family members.
• Use caution when returning home and walking on higher ground since insects, snakes, and other animals may have found refuge there.
• Stressed animals may avoid food and exhibit other behavior abnormalities. Allow them to adjust and refrain from reinforcing abnormal behavior, however, do not hesitate to consult with a local veterinarian. Often times a simply telephone call explaining the situation can put your mind at ease and save a panicked trip to the vet.
• Post flood threats include mosquitoes and other vectors. Check with local veterinarians for preventative medical tips.