Are You and Your Pets Ready for Hurricane Season?
Pets are even more dependent on you during an emergency for their safety and well-being. Your family’s disaster plans should include your furry family members too.
1 - Do Not Leave Your Pet behind.
In an evacuation, pet owners may assume their pets will always be with them. Still, it can be stressful to make decisions, especially if flooding and structural damage to your shelter is involved. This is why having a plan is imperative. Always bring your pet with you if you are evacuated or have to leave your shelter because of flooding or damage.
2 - Pack A Pet Travel Kit.
Make sure you pack enough food, water, prescriptions, and medications to last two weeks. Loading carriers, crates, bowls, towels, bathing supplies, flea/tick control, leashes, and toys would be best. Place treats, toys, and meals within your pet's carrier or crate routinely to make it a fun and safe place. Here is the CDC's checklist: https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/resources/disaster-prep-pet-emergency-checklist.pdf
3 - Attach 2 ID Tags to Your Pet's Collar.
If you live outside of your immediate area, include a temporary tag with the phone number of a friend or relative. This information will come in handy if you are separated from your pet and are at a distance. Additionally, you should include the rabies tag for your pet.
4 - Pets should be microchipped.
A microchip can be used to reunite lost animals with their homes after a storm if they have escaped their collars or their tags have fallen off. A Pet Alliance of Orlando Veterinary Clinic can microchip your pet if it is not already. Contact Sanford or Alafaya by calling (407) 351-7722. Check to see if their chip registration has been updated. Be sure to locate and update your microchip registry.
5 - Vaccinations
Most storm shelters require your pet's vaccination records, so make sure they are up-to-date. Keep a record file for each pet in a waterproof ziplock baggie or storage container. Be sure to keep a record of all pet licenses, registrations, health records, and other documents related to your pet. In some cases, this information is required for boarding or useful for a caretaker.
6 - Keep a picture of you and your pet with you.
You will be able to document ownership and assist others if your pet goes missing if you take a picture of yourself and your pet together. Include species, breed, age, gender, color, and distinguishing characteristics.
