Recently, national and local events have made me aware of the need to plan ahead for the care of our pets. Hurricane Katrina impacted animal shelters in the region, but how many more pets were separated from their families in those states most affected? The Red Cross, ASPCA, and other emergency service organizations all encourage us to have some sort of disaster plan in place for our pets, as well as the rest of the family; it’s so important to know what to do in the event of a hurricane, flood, or tornado.
Here are some of the things suggested that may help reunite you with your pet if you are separated in the event of a disaster:
ü Be sure your pet is spayed or neutered, because it will be less likely to roam as far from home.
ü When a pet is young, fit it and get it accustomed to a good nylon collar; then purchase tags (available from WAHS) engraved with the pet’s name our phone number, so people know who to contact if the pet is found as a stray.
ü Additionally, any veterinarian can implant the tiny microchip ID that makes positive identification possible, even if the collar and tag are lost.I’ve read success stories of pets reunited with owners through the use of the microchip---even when the animal has been many miles from home. It is relatively inexpensive, and requires a one-time registration fee, however, you need to make sure you register and update your contact information, should you move. Using a cell phone number, you can be contacted anywhere!
ü Just as we keep important documents, medications, extra food and bottled water for the human members of our family, we should also pack extra pet supplies, food & bottled water with dishes, any pet medications, a pet first-aid kit, and important pet papers (such as a rabies certificate, vaccinations, etc.).
ü You should store a small crate next to your pet carriers and leashes near your door. It is a good idea to get your pets familiar with travel carriers. We have “trained” all our pets to be accustomed to riding with us in the car. In the event of an emergency evacuation, they would probably think of it as just another trip in the car.
ü Have a neighbor who has a key and will rescue your pets if you are at work and the neighborhood is evacuated---officials will not let you back once the orders are given!
If you do have to leave, do not leave your pets behind. The ASPCA recommends arranging for a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. Red Cross disaster shelters do not accept pets, so you need to determine where you will bring your pets ahead of time. There are lists of pet-friendly motels that accept pets. Veterinarians may know of boarding kennels, animal shelters, and facilities for animals. And, don’t forget that you may have friends or relatives who would be willing to take in your pet. The key here is to plan ahead.
Saturday, Sept. 17’th was “Responsible Dog Ownership Day”, and a part of that is including plans that provide for care of your pets in the event of something happening to you. We often get animals in the shelter where the owners have died or can no longer care for them. This is especially unfortunate for older pets. You should include written instructions for your pet’s care along with your will and other legal documents, providing money for their continuing well-being. There are even a few generous individuals who include WAHS as a beneficiary in their estates, knowing that we care for abandoned animals.
WAHS has a continued need for the following items: carpet samples (doormat size), paper toweling, canned cat food, non-clumping cat litter, bleach, antibacterial soap, laundry detergent, pet brushes, tennis balls, and toys for the animals.
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