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\nNatural Disaster Planning for Pets<\/p>\n
\nNatural Disaster Planning for Pets<\/p>\n
As pets have become a more important part of our family units, so has their safety and wellbeing. Yet, few of us are prepared for the event of a natural disaster. In order to make things a little easier, we\u2019ve put together a few simple tips on how to protect your pets should your area be struck by a tornado, hurricane, flood, or fire.<\/p>\n
One important thing to note is that in all of these disaster scenarios it is safer to evacuate with your family and pets. However, keep in mind that boarding facilities, kennels, and animal shelters require that your pets have all their vaccinations up to date, or you might be turned away. Also, many emergency shelters do NOT accept pets for health and safety reasons, so pet-friendly shelters will fill up fast.<\/p>\n
Tornadoes<\/strong><\/p>\n Occurring at a moment\u2019s notice, tornadoes can sweep through a neighborhood indiscriminately and wreak havoc in a short period. Here\u2019s what you can do:<\/p>\n Tornado Preparation<\/strong> If you live in an area affected by tornadoes, get in the habit of doing drills with your family and pets during mild weather to ensure they will all know what to do in the event of an emergency.<\/p>\n Stock your tornado-safe area with a pet emergency kit and keep crates in the designated area for each of your pets. Panic can give rise to out of the ordinary behaviors in pets and fast confinement will be required.<\/p>\n Know where your pets’ hiding spots are, so you can grab them and take them to safety as quickly as possible. Limit their access to any unsafe spots it may be hard to get them out of.<\/p>\n If you can evacuate, don\u2019t leave your pets behind. Take proper pet identification and emergency kits for your pets as well as for your family.<\/p>\n During a Tornado<\/strong> After a Tornado<\/strong> Keep your pets secured at all times. Cats should remain in their carriers, and dogs on a leash.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t allow your pets to go near water or other liquids on the ground outside; debris from the tornado may have contaminated the area or live power lines may be laying in the water.<\/p>\n Keep everyone (including yourself) away from downed power lines.<\/p>\n Floods<\/strong><\/p>\n Flood conditions can also encroach rapidly and sometimes without much notice. Here\u2019s what you can do:<\/p>\n Flood Preparation<\/strong> Know where your pets’ hiding spots are, so you can grab them and take them to safety as quickly as possible. Limit their access to any unsafe spots it may be hard to get your pets out of.<\/p>\n Prepare a pet emergency kit and, if you can, evacuate with your pets.<\/p>\n During a Flood<\/strong> After a Flood<\/strong> Don\u2019t allow your pets to go near water or other liquids on the ground; in addition to debris and live power lines, the water may be contaminated with infectious diseases and parasites.<\/p>\n Keep everyone (including yourself) away from downed power lines.<\/p>\n Fires<\/strong><\/p>\n Wildfires can begin quickly and spread rapidly, especially during the driest seasons. Here\u2019s what you can do:<\/p>\n Fire Preparation<\/strong> Know where your pets’ hiding spots are so you can grab them and take them to safety as quickly as possible. Limit their access to any unsafe spots it may be hard to get your pets out of.<\/p>\n Prepare a pet emergency kit and have a crate available so that you can evacuate with your pets as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n During a Fire<\/strong> After a Fire<\/strong> Keep your pets on a leash or in a crate.<\/p>\n In an emergency situation, your family pets will need you more than ever. Take charge and be prepared. Here are some other great emergency preparation resources:<\/p>\n
\nDesignate a tornado-safe location that will accommodate your entire family, including pets. A windowless room nearest to the ground floor is recommended.<\/p>\n
\nIf your family is weathering the storm inside the home, make it to your “safe room” and crate your pet as soon as possible. If you can, place the crates under heavy, durable furniture.<\/p>\n
\nAlways be extra careful when going outdoors following a tornado. Only exit the home after you and your family are certain the storm has passed.<\/p>\n
\nIf you live in an area affected by floods, get in the habit of doing “drills” with your family and pets to ensure they will all know what to do in the event of an emergency.<\/p>\n
\nIf your family gets stuck in your home during a flood, move to the upper floors or into your attic. During sever flooding, such as what occurred in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina, move onto your roof until help can arrive.
\nKeep your pets either on a leash or in a crate so that they do not run away in a panic.<\/p>\n
\nStay indoors until after the water has receded.<\/p>\n
\nIf you live in an area affected by fires, get in the habit of doing “drills” with your family and pets to ensure they will all know what to do in the event of an emergency.<\/p>\n
\nWildfires move quickly but will often give you enough time to evacuate. Household items can be replaced, family and pets cannot.<\/p>\n
\nUpon returning to your home be aware that wildfires may leave surrounding structures unstable and dangerous for wandering pets. Also, wild animals from the surrounding area may have been pushed into more residential areas, which pose a danger to your family and pets.<\/p>\n