Disaster Guide for Pet Owners

DISASTER GUIDE.PDF

Are you prepared for a disaster?

If a disaster strikes are you prepared to provide for your pet? Most disasters occur with little or no warning. Planning ahead is the key to survival in the event that you must evacuate your home.

Remember that Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets other than assistance or guide dogs because of health and safety reasons.

If at all possible, make arrangements to take your pet with you.

Make calls now to determine available boarding facilities and their requirements. Check with veterinary facilities for boarding availability. Contact friends or relatives out of the immediate area who might be willing to take in your pets temporarily.

Under no circumstances should you leave your pet outside in an unattended vehicle.

Have on hand pet carriers or crates for each pet. They should be large enough for your pet to stand and turn around in.

Make certain that your pet's vaccinations are current, especially for rabies. Have certificates ready to take with you if you must evacuate.

Make sure your pet is wearing a properly fitted collar with current license and rabies tag and an identification tag. Have a leash on hand to control your pet.

Have in readiness the following supplies:

Food and water bowls
Ample dry pet food in waterproof containers
Ample supply of special medications
Litter and litter pans for cats
Newspapers, towels, bags for disposal of pet wastes, cleaners and disinfectants
A current photo of each pet.
This is especially helpful for identifying your pet if you should become separated.
Leaving your pet at home alone will place your animal at greater risk for injury or loss.

However, if you must leave the pets behind, take the following precautions:
Prepare an area for your pet inside such as bathrooms and utility rooms, well away from windows.
Do not confine cats and dogs in the same area, even if normally they are friendly.
Keep small animals and birds securely caged
Make sure all pets are wearing well-fitted collars with proper identification
Leave enough dry food for at least three days in sturdy, non-spill able containers Water should be left in clean, sturdy containers that will not tip over
Birds must eat daily to survive. Leave their food in dispensers that regulate the amount of food and provide extra water
Place notices on doors advising what pets are in the house and where they are located
Hang leashes where they can readily be found
Provide a telephone number or location where you can be reached and the name and number of your vet.
Following a disaster, do not allow your pet outdoors alone for several days. Familiar sights and sounds may be gone and your pet could become confused and lost. Downed power lines and animals roaming at large may pose a threat to your pet's safety.

Do not allow your pet to drink outdoors from any open water supply until you are told by authorities that the water is safe. Provide your pet with bottled water.

If you or your animal is bitten by any animal, contact your local animal control and health department immediately.