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Practical Planning Ideas
"In today's world,
we must be ready for anything," said Anne Culver, director for Disaster
Services at The Humane Society of the U.S. "Pets are a part of our
families too, and we need to plan now for their safety and well-being if
an emergency should occur. It's better to get ready now than to be caught
unprepared later. We believe that a reasonable approach will address most
situations.” The HSUS suggests that all pet owners have an emergency
supply kit for their pets.* This kit should include:
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A three-day supply of food and water, as well as bowls, cat litter and
litter box, and a manual can opener.
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Current photos and descriptions of your pets to help others identify them
should you and your pets become separated. Pets should wear up-to-date
identification, including the phone number of someone out of the area in
case your pet becomes lost while you're not at home.
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Medications, medical records and a first aid kit stored in a waterproof
container.
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Sturdy
leashes, harnesses, and carriers to transport pets safely as well as
blankets or towels for bedding and warmth. Carriers should be large enough
to comfortably house your pet for several hours. If the need arises to
evacuate an area, keep your pet with you. If it isn't safe for you to
stay in area, it isn't safe for your pets. Pets that are turned loose
or left behind to fend for themselves are likely to become victims of
exposure, starvation, predators, contaminated food or water, or
accidents. Bring your pet indoors at the first sign of storms or other
disasters…they can become disoriented and wander off.
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Note:
Evacuation shelters might not accept pets, so it's best to plan in advance
where you will go. "No Pet" restrictions at local hotels and motels might
be lifted in an emergency, so it's best to ask. Check with friends and
family members who live outside your area to see if they can shelter you
or your pets if needed.
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Microchip
your pet. In any situation, even non-disaster, this is a good idea.
Almost all vets have scanners now that can read this tiny chip implanted
under the skin. The microchip could make the difference in whether you
and your furry love are reunited or not!
* With gratitude to
HSUS for permission to reprint
information above.
The
ASPCA also has a comprehensive list of ways you can prepare for
disasters so that your pets won't be put in jeopardy.
Help us help the pets who get left behind due to circumstances not at all
in their control.
Donate direct to
the HSSM in Missippi, to the
Humane Society of the U.S.,to your
local ASPCA, or to other pet rescue groups in your local area. |
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Hurricane Harvey
Hands on Help
Where to Donate
Foster/Adopt a Pet
Disaster Preparation
Provide for Pets
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