Missouri River Flood: Pet Safety Tips

As the Missouri River flooding continues, curious onlookers flock to the water's edge. During an outing to photograph the flood, I noticed a family allowing their dog to drink from the edge of the flood waters. Although it was a hot summer evening, the family could have visited a nearby public restroom to get clean water for the pet.

Physical Dangers

Flood waters can mask several pet dangers including sink holes, broken glass, dangerous debris and snakes, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health. Just by wading a few inches into the murky water, the soft pads of a dog's foot could get cut, causing infection or the need for sutures.

Chemicals in Flood Waters

In addition to physical dangers, flood waters are contaminated. Water rushing over roads carry automotive oil, brake fluid and antifreeze into the flood waters. Flood waters that have ravaged backyards, garages and homes can contain any chemicals stored in those areas, including bleach, gasoline and fertilizer. Sewage often contaminates flooded areas. Pets should never be allowed to drink from flood waters.

Safe Trip Home

If you're returning to a previously evacuated home or business, take extra precautions when reintroducing the pet. Do a through cleaning of the yard and land where the pet will be allowed to roam. Flood waters can unearth buried garbage.

Discard any flood-soaked pet houses or play toys. Porous wooden dog houses can harbor toxic mold spores. Toys that floated in flood waters may be soaked with chemicals or other contaminants.

During a flood, displaced wildlife seeks higher ground. Before leaving a pet alone in a garage, barn or the previously flooded home, check for snakes, rodents or small mammals. Scared animals will strike and bite if provoked.

Washing the Pet

If your pet accidentally ventured into flood waters, give it a bath as soon as possible. Wear protective gloves, goggles and rubber boots to prevent cross contamination to humans, suggests the Centers for Disease Control. Concentrate on scrubbing the pads of the paws, wiping out the ears, lathering and rinsing the pet's fur and investigating for any small cuts or bites. If left unwashed, the pet becomes susceptible to infections.

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