Safety Measures to Protect Your Pet - Patch.com
Your pet is a member of your family. To protect her/him during Hurricane Irene and other emergencies, Patch has compiled a list of lifesaving measures during this hurricane season and in the future.
The most important thing you can do is to plan ahead. If you are asked to evacuate, you need to bring your pets with you. You need to start thinking today about where you will take your pets -- ask a dependable friend or relative who lives some distance from the evacuation area if you and/or your pets can stay with them until the "all clear" is given.
An alternative is to find a pet friendly motel. There a number of them listed on the web:
http://www.pet-friendly-hotels.net/pet-friendly-hotels-newjersey.html
http://www.bringfido.com/lodging/state/new_jersey/
http://www.funnewjersey.com/upload_user/Weekend_Getaways/HOTELS.HTM
You should have a portable pet carrier for each animal and identification with each animal. Bring copies of the pet's licenses, leashes, water and food bowls, pet foods, bottled water, special medications and instructions for their administration, any special needs for your pet, blankets, handy wipes, paper towels and litter or bedding.
Go to http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/ah/pdf/petbro.pdf for more information on emergency planning for pets.
A Pet Emergency Kit
To put together a Pet Emergency Kit, here are some tips provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security , the American Kennel Club, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Humane Society.
- Pack 2 Pet Emergency Kits. In one, food, medications and toys; in the other -- a lightweight, smaller version -- things to bring along if you and your pets have to get away quickly.
- Remember Food, water and Medicines: Pack food for at least three days in an airtight, waterproof container.
- Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and your family.
- Keep an extra supply of medicines in a waterproof container. First aid kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book.
- ID: Your pet should wear a collar with rabies tag and identification at all times. Include in a waterproof container a backup leash, collar and ID tag, copies of your pet's records: registration information, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records. Microchipped pets have a much greater chance of being reunited with their owners.
- Sanitation. Include pet litter and a litter box, and, if possible, cleaning supplies. You can use bleach as a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water to one part bleach), or in an emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented or color safe bleaches, or those with added cleaners.
- A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you in identify your pet. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics. The photo and your contact information should be attached to the crate.
- Familiar items. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.
Transporting your pet. If you need to evacuate, take your pets and animals with you. A sturdy, safe, comfortable crate is essential. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.
PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR PET'S SAFETY
- Also, it's a good idea to plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
- Talk to your pet's veterinarian about emergency planning. If you have time, find veterinary hospitals in other cities where you might need to seek temporary shelter and enroll your pet in a recovery database. Again, microchipped pets are the best way to make sure you're reunited with your pet.
- Gather contact information for emergency animal treatment. Make a list of contact information and addresses of area animal control agencies, including the Humane Society or SPCA, and emergency veterinary hospitals. Keep one copy of these phone numbers with you and one in your pet's emergency supply kit.
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