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Don't leave pets behind to face storm alone
[Photos: AP (1998)]
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| Fisherman James Cain and his dog take cover from Hurricane Earl while checking on Cain’s oyster boat in September 1998 in Eastpoint. |
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By Times staff
© St. Petersburg Times
published May 26, 2002
Pets need to be included in your hurricane plans. This is especially important because you will not be able to take pets along to a shelter because of health and safety concerns.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Pinellas County cautions people to not leave their pets behind when evacuating their homes. Pets can get lost, become injured or die if left to weather the storm alone.
Although the SPCA can't provide an evacuation site for your pets, it does give some practical guidance for emergency planning.
Make arrangements for your pet's care by contacting friends, family, veterinarians or boarding kennels in advance. If you are depending on a veterinarian or kennel, make your plans now. These businesses generally take care of regular customers first, so waiting until the last minute may leave you out of luck.
Should a hurricane threaten, bring your animals inside so they will be easier to gather up for an evacuation.
Bear in mind that animals react differently under stress. Outside your home and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed, the SPCA warns. Transport cats in carriers. Don't leave animals unattended anywhere they can run off. The most trustworthy pets may panic, hide, try to escape or even bite or scratch.
When you return home, give your pets time to settle back into their routines.
Here are some tips from the SPCA for transporting your pets:
Cats and dogs
The following items should be packed in advance and kept on hand in case of any emergency:
- Collar with proper identification tags (both rabies and name, address and phone number of owner) and sturdy leashes.
- Any medications necessary, plus instructions.
- Medical records and vaccination information in a waterproof container.
- A first aid kit.
- Portable pet carriers and bedding.
- Food and water (at least a two-week supply), bowls and a can opener (if needed).
- Litter and litter box for cats/plastic trash bags and paper towels for dogs.
- Toys or special comfort items.
- Current photos of your pets in case they get lost.
Birds
- Birds should be transported in a secure travel cage or carrier.
- Carry a plant mister to mist the birds' feathers periodically.
- Do not put water inside the carrier during transport. Provide a few slices of fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content.
- Have a photo for identification and leg bands.
- If the carrier does not have a perch, line it with paper towels and change them frequently.
- Try to keep the carrier in a quiet area.
- Do not let the birds out of the cage or carrier.
Reptiles
- Snakes can be transported in a pillowcase but they must be transferred to more secure housing when they reach the evacuation site.
- If your snakes require frequent feedings, carry food with you.
- Take a water bowl large enough for soaking and a heating pad.
- When transporting house lizards, follow the same directions as for birds.
Pocket pets
Small mammals (hamsters, gerbils, etc.) should be transported in secure carriers suitable for maintaining the animals while sheltered. Take bedding materials, food bowls, and water bottles.
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