“Hurricanes continue to become more destructive and after last year’s deadly storms, many families were tragically separated from their beloved pets,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, CEO and President of the American Humane Society. “It’s imperative that you plan accordingly to protect your entire family – pets included.”
The American Humane Society offers the following tips for preparing pets for the season:
Before the Storm
• Microchip pets and/or put a tag on their collar with your name, current address and cellphone number.
• Ensure you have emergency supplies — extra pet food, water and a carrier large enough for your pet to turn around and lie down comfortably.
• Have at the ready a pet disaster preparedness kit including a pet carrier, First Aid supplies, leashes, bowls, sanitation materials, chew toys and food, meds and water (ideally, seven to 10 days’ worth).
• Secure exits and cat doors so pets cannot escape into the storm.
During the Storm… If You Cannot Evacuate
• Choose a safe room for riding out the storm—an interior room with no windows—and take your pets with your family to that room.
• Keep your pets close to you during the storm.
• Keep your emergency kit in that room with you (food, water, litter, meds).
• Do not tranquilize your pets. They will need their survival instincts should the storm require them.