Disaster Preparation

Protecting Your Pets

Remember, if a disaster leaves you homeless, it also leaves your pets homeless.  While many agencies will help you find temporary housing; finding housing that accepts pets is a low priority.  Furthermore, when disaster strikes-be it a house fire or tornado-you won't have time to pack or plan.  If you must evacuate your home, don't leave your pet behind.  Many people leave their pets behind on the mistaken assumption that animals can fend for themselves, but that just isn't true.  That's why having an emergency plan can make the difference between your pet's safety and a tragic loss.

• Never leave your pet(s) outside during a storm.

• Never leave a cat with a dog, even if they are normally friends.

• Confine and keep small pets (birds, hamsters, etc.) away from cats and dogs.

• Frightened animals can quickly slip out open doors, broken windows or other damaged areas of your home opened by the storm.

• If you bring plants into your home before a storm, be careful not to allow pets access to them, as many plants are poisonous.

• If you must evacuate, then conditions are not only unsafe for you but for your pets as well.

• Remember that public shelters will not accept pets.

• A disaster plan will help you and your pet(s) survive.  Determine a safe location to evacuate to such as friends or relatives.

• If you plan to go to a motel, determine in advance whether pets are welcome and if any special rules are applicable.

• If you plan to shelter your pets at a kennel or clinic, call before evacuating to determine if space is still available.

• If you must evacuate, all animals should have secure carriers (or collapsible cages for large dogs) as well as collars, leashes, ID tags, rabies tag, as well as immunization records.  If your pet becomes lost, proper ID will help ensure their return to you.

• Carriers should be large enough for the animals to stand comfortably and turn around.  Train your pets to become familiar with their carriers ahead of time.  Then the carrier will be a secure and comforting refuge if the animal is required to live in it for days after a storm.

• Throughout the evacuation and the storm, your pet(s) will need reassurance from you.  Remain calm, keep as close to normal routine as possible and speak to them regularly in a calm, reassuring voice.

• Place your pet food and medications in watertight containers and store adequate water for your pets.

• If you have exotic pets, contact local pet stores or zoological gardens, in a safe area, for assistance in sheltering your pet.

• Prepare a survival kit.

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