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 Hurricane,
Tornadoes, Natural Disasters & Your Pets |
When disaster strikes your area, please remember that animal
shelters generally cannot house your pet as they are usually
full with pets looking for a new home.
Planning |
 Depending on the
severity of a natural disaster and just where it is located, it
may be necessary for you to leave your home. In the past year
hurricanes, tornadoes and wild fires forced many Florida
residents to flee their property. Public shelters are often the
place where evacuees go in a disaster and pets, unless they are
service animals, are not allowed to accompany you.
Without prior
planning, a disaster can find you caught in a bind at the last
moment. Much of the time animals are left to fend for
themselves. Pets left at home are at risk from starvation,
contaminated water and food, predators, exposure, drowning and
serious injury from property damages such as broken glass etc.
Safe Boarding |
It is advisable
to prearrange shelter for your pets in the event of an emergency
evacuation. Be sure to include in your planning a time guideline
that will allow you to get your pets and yourself to a safe
location.
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 Many hotels and motels will take animals. Pre
arrangement is definitely wise. Check with hotels
and motels in advance as to their policy on animals.
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Friends and relatives living nearby who are not in
an evacuation zone may be willing to assist in an
emergency.
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Kennels and veterinarian clinics that normally board
animals will do so in an emergency as well.
Remember space is limited. Advance contact and
reservations is advisable.
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Documentation & Supplies |
-
 Current photos of pets with name and ID numbers written on the
back of the photographs.
- Up to date immunizations and health records for each pet.
- A contact name and phone number of someone who can be
contacted in case of emergency.
- Two week supply of food & water. Water purification
- (ie: 2 drops of bleach per quart of water, let stand 30
minutes before use) and a manual can opener.
- Bowls
- Medications and First Aid Kit
- Grooming supplies and hygiene items.
- Newspapers and plastic bags for handling waste.
- ID tags, collars and leases. A muzzle for dogs can also
be helpful.
- Carrier for each pet with proper identification.
Remember - Plan ahead for your pet & your family!
- Hurricane season runs annually from June 1st through to November 30th.
- Hurricanes frequently spawn tornadoes.
- The lack of rain and resulting drops in the water table leaves the
area more susceptible to forest fires.
- This area has been noted as the "lightning capital" of the
world.
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