When Disaster Strikes

All to often when an emergency strikes we find ourselves unprepared, especially as it relates to our pets. Are you prepared? If you must leave your pets at home during a disaster, please ensure you do at least the following:

Never leave your pets tied up outside during a storm. Bring them inside as much in advance as you can.

Leave them in the basement or an area free from windows. This will minimize their chance of being harmed in case the glass is broken by high winds.

Make sure small animals such as hampsters, birds, guines pigs, fish, etc. are confined in their cages or tanks and safley placed out of the reach of your dog or cat. Place these cages on an elevated surface out of danger of flooding. It is also wise to place a top over your fish tank preventing your other pets from "going fishing" and to ensure the fish don't jump out when they begin to sense danger.

Leave enough food and water for your pets. There are wonderful products on the maket today that will store food and dispense it daily as required by the pet. Those of you who own birds, remeber they must be fed daily to survive. Also fill a sink or large tub with water so it is accessible to the pets that are left loose in the house. Do not crate your dog or cat! Do not assume that you will return "in tme" you may be out of the house for days. I can't begin to tell you how many times I have heard people say "But I thought we'd be right back." Only to return too late.

Make sure all cleaning products and hazardous or poisonous materials are stowed safely in locked cabinets. I would recommend you purchase child proof cabinet locks to be used when a disaster is expected.

Make it possible for your animals to climb to a higher surface. In the event of flooding give your pet the opportunity to get to the nearest counter top or table for safety.

It is also a good idea to contact the local shelters or pet foster homes in your area. They may have a designated area you can take your pet or let you know which shelter in your county allows you to take your pets along so that they do not need to be left home alone.

The best advice in any emergency is be prepared. For more information on animal emergency preparedness you can call the humane society of the United States or go to their website at www.humanesociety.com.

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