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BEFORE THE DISASTER
DURING THE DISASTER
AFTER THE DISASTER
Contact your veterinarian
or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.
BEFORE
THE DISASTER
-
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
ADDITIONAL
LINKS
The HUMANE SOCIETY Disaster
Center
FEMA
- Animals and Emergencies
Locate PET-FRIENDLY
Hotels & Motels
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