Preparing/ making arrangements for pets

Fri, Aug 30th 2019, 11:45 AM

Preparing/ making arrangements for pets

With hurricane season well and truly in swing, it is important to ensure that your pet is protected and prepared for the events that ensue. Making a disaster plan outlining essential steps for safely navigating dangerous weather is an important measure to take.




Below is an example kit and plan which can be modified to suit your individual needs:

1. Ensure that pets are wearing collars and identification tags which are up to date, and that your contact number is on them.

2. If you evacuate, take your pet with you, and evacuate early to ensure your pet is not left behind.

3. Contact emergency shelters and nearby hotels and motels ahead of time to check what their policy on pets is and if they’ll be able to stay with you. Ask about specific factors e.g. size and number of pets.

4. Contact friends/ relatives, kennels/ veterinary offices, and local animal shelters and compile a list of options for housing your pet. Make this list and the necessary arrangements ahead of time, particularly if you are not in the country/ area at the time.

5. At home make adjustments:

- Close off/ remove unsafe openings where frightened pets may attempt to hide.

- Move dangerous items e.g. toxic products or tools away from access of pets.

- Bring pets indoors as soon as a warning by local authorities is issued.

- Where possible designate a ‘safe room’ in which to keep your emergency supplies, including pet bed, food and other pet supplies.

- Put any medications, pet food and water inside watertight containers, along with other emergency supplies.

- Close up any open fireplaces, vents, pet doors or similar openings in the house with plastic sheeting or strong tape.

- Listen to radio updates regularly and don’t come out or let your pet out until safety is confirmed.

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