Reduce Stress with Ready-Made Hurricane Packs
June 10, 2004
June is National Disaster Preparedness Month for Animals and word has it that New Orleans is facing a menacing hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an above-normal hurricane season with 6-8 hurricanes of which 2-4 will be major ones. There is a small chance, 10%, that our season will be below-normal. That’s not very promising.
NOAA believes that the hurricanes are likely to form during August through October, which gives us a bit of planning time.
My hurricane pet kit is already packed. It includes a ready-to-take kitty litter box (although our kitty died a few months ago), food and water bowls, a copy of veterinary records, toys, poop bags for on the road pick-up, current pet photos, chewies, heartworm preventative, carpet stain removal product, and towels. Since we only feed dry food, a can opener isn’t necessary.
Our “to-grab-when-leaving” list includes leashes, pet food, blankets, and paper towels. The dogs are already wearing collars with rabies and identification tags.
If you haven’t packed yet, it’s a great time to do so. Imagine how relieved you will feel when the time hits, you rush home from work, and you’re ready to go. When speeding around the house, you are bound to forget important items.
Identification and pet records are critical to have on hand and they are easy to overlook. It is common for animals to escape in the chaos and during travel. Pets get scared and flee. If your pet is lucky enough to end up in a shelter, you must show proof of ownership before the animal will be released to you. Trying to negotiate with the shelter without identification is frustrating and worrisome. It’s unlikely you will be able to reach your home veterinarian as they’ll be evacuating, too, and will not have access to records.
If you cannot take your pet with you when evacuating, it’s vital that you make arrangements beforehand. Many veterinary offices close as they, too, want to leave. Shelters cannot accept pets for boarding. If the imminent hurricane is a class 3 level or above, the LA/SPCA, for example, evacuates all 400 animals in its care.
Although it is unimaginable, it is surprising how many people leave their dogs tied to an outside fence when leaving town. Naturally, the dog cannot escape the water, wind, or falling items. If you are on your way out-of-town and see a dog tied, call the LA/SPCA at
368-5191, ext. 100, immediately and report the address. The dog will be rescued although the list is long and it may take a while to get there. Cats have a better shot as they can climb on top or roofs, but cannot find food.
The best action plan is to take your furry family members with you on your journey. If you have a ready-made-kit, you won’t have to worry about what to do with Fido of Fluffy (or the snake, rabbit, or gerbils).
- Laura Maloney
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