No Pet Left Behind: Caring for Your Pets During a Hurricane

In the aftermath of Katrina in 2005 we all saw the numerous stories of how pets were abandoned. During the relief efforts many of those pets were rescued and the subsequent rescuers were sued because the owners could not recover their pets. Do not put this burden on the people who come to help, take the responsibility first to take care of your loved ones. Pets enrich our lives in more ways than we can count. Part of the responsibility of pet ownership is ensuring the well being and safety of our pets. Here is how to protect your pets during a hurricane.

Readiness

Just as you have a plan for your family, if you own pets you must have a plan that includes the care of your pets during a hurricane. During a hurricane you must always be prepared to evacuate and knowing how your pets will travel is essential. Leaving your pets behind is a recipe for disaster even if you have created a safe place for them. So prepare now for the day you evacuate and when you do take your pets with you.

Red Cross shelters and most local shelters cannot accept pets. Service animals are the only animals that are allow in Red Cross Shelters. If you are planning on evacuating to a local shelter during a hurricane, you must find shelter for your animals in advance. Do not wait until the last minute to do your research. Many rescue organizations also have pet shelters that operate during a disaster. Check on the requirements that these locations may have.

Contact the hotels and motels along your planned evacuation route on their policies about pets and the restrictions on size, number and types of pets. Remember someone's boa constrictor is not the same as someone else's miniature horse. Keep and updated list of pet friendly places including phone numbers and maps to them along with you other disaster information. If you know in advance that you will be evacuating make advance reservations.

If you will be going to a relative or other outside the area safe point make sure that they can accommodate your pets and their needs in advance. It is always best to keep family groups together, including your pets but be prepared to split the animals if the need arises.

Portable Pet Disaster Kit

Regardless of whether you are away from home for one day or for three weeks, you'll need essential items for your animals. Keep these items stored just as you do for your family. Sturdy containers or large duffel bags make excellent kit boxes.

The same things you and your family will need are needed by your pet.

Medications and medical records and a first aid kit
Current photos and id numbers in case your pets are lost
Sturdy leashes, tie outs and carriers are essential to maintain control your animals in strange environments.
Food, water, bowls, cat litter/box, and a can opener are all essential
Pet Beds and toys if they can be moved easily
If you are taking your pets to a shelter or to another person for care information on their feeding schedules, medicines and behavior problems along with the name of your veterinarian in case of emergency

Planning and preparation will enable you and your pets to evacuate quickly and safely. But remember just like people different animals react differently under stress. Outside your home area keep your animals tightly controlled. Do not leave your animals unattended anywhere they can get away.

If you must evacuate take your animals with you. Evacuate them to your prearranged safe locations, whenever you prepare to evacuate your family. Pets are a part of our families and our lives. Help to survive just as you would other members of your family.