 MILLHOPPER
VET HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST |
1. Know where to go. It may be difficult or impossible to
find shelter for your animals in a disaster, and you should never leave them
behind. Even if they survive the storm, they may escape a damaged home and
be lost in the chaos. Check policies of hotels and motels on your
evacuation route in advance, and keep a list of pet-friendly places with other
disaster information and supplies. If you have notice of an impending
storm, call ahead for reservations. Check the website
Pets Welcome
for a list of hotels that accept pets. You may also check with friends or
relatives outside the area to see if they would be willing to shelter your pets.
2. Vaccinate your pet.
If you haven't yet done so, get
your pet up to date on vaccines now. Keep proof of vaccination with your
hurricane supplies. Not only will this keep your pet safe from infectious
disease, which could become a threat following a disaster, it will help ensure
that your pet will be welcome should they need to spend time at a shelter or
boarding facility.
3. Identify your pet. Having your pet micro-chipped and
keeping identification information up to date is the best way to increase the
chance that you and your best friend will be reunited if you are separated for
any reason in the chaos of a storm. Also, keep current photos of your pet
(frontal, left, and right sides) along with other important paperwork in a
waterproof carrier to take with you.
4. Get a pet carrier. You will need a pet carrier or cage
for each dog, cat, bird, or small animal. Make sure it is large enough for
them to stand and turn around comfortably inside, as they may have to spend
extended amounts of time in it. Take time to familiarize your pet with its
carrier, and make sure the carrier is easily accessible at all times.
5. Assemble a disaster kit. Include a supply of your pet's
medications and copies of medical records. Prepare a 14-day supply of food
and water (don't forget a manual can opener if necessary!), grooming supplies, a
collar or harness and leash for each pet, and blankets and favorite toys.
Gather supplies to handle wastes, such as plastic bags, newspapers, litter,
paper towels, and cleansers. Remember, if you're riding out the storm,
there may be times it is not possible for your pet to go outside to "do his
business." Make sure there is a place inside where it is 'ok' to go,
and make sure to praise him profusely when he goes there.
6. After the storm. Be careful about letting your pets
outdoors. Landmarks and scents might be gone, and your pet might get lost.
A disoriented animal is in danger of interfering with emergency workers, or even
getting struck by an emergency vehicle. Scattered debris and downed power
lines pose a risk of serious injury or death to your pet. There is also
the danger your pet may consume contaminated food or water.
Adapted from "Prepare your pet before hurricane
hits" by Janis Fontaine, Palm Beach Post
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