As storm approaches, keep your pet safe

ASPCA

By: NBC 10 News | NBC 10
Published: September 02, 2010

As Hurricane Earl approaches the East Coast, the ASPCA would like to offer tips and advice on how to keep people and their pets safe

Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits:

Keep an evacuation pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:

Pet first-aid kit and guide book
3-7 days' worth of canned or dry food (be sure to rotate every two months)
Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires
Bottled water, at least 7 days' worth for each person and pet

Evacuation Preparation:

When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:

Store an emergency kit and leashes as close to an exit as possible.
Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, telephone number, and any urgent medical needs.
The ASPCA recommends microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification.
Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.
Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster.

Geographic and Climatic Considerations:

Determine well in advance which rooms offer safe havens. These rooms should be clear of hazards such as windows, flying debris, etc.
Choose easy-to-clean areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms, and basements as safe zones.
Access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises.

In the event of flooding, go to the highest location in your home, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter.