We urge you to keep in mind a basic rule regarding emergencies that we have mentioned many times; "Safety for the entire family". Before a storm reaches your area, gather the family and discuss what needs to done, who is in charge of certain tasks and stress the importance of keeping pets indoors. Make a list of pet needs and a few basic rules that even smaller children can understand such as not opening the door until the dogs are leashed, not to remove their harness, etc. If you stay during a storm (areas not ordered to evacuate or on higher ground) here are some things to consider:
* Securing your pet is of the utmost importance. Animals which become lost during a major storm are often confused and panicked and may bolt. Even the best trained dogs won't respond to commands during a terrifying weather situation.
* All animals should be wearing a collar or harness with I.D. tags at all time, meaning 24/7. Don't wait for the water to rise to be scrambling for a leash and gear; get it out now and put it on them.
* Stock up on essentials should you be unable to get out for a week or so.
* During every single storm we wind up with a number of posts such as "the dog got scared and slipped out of it's collar", or "they bolted because of thunder" or "we let them out to potty and they didn't come back". You can't account for all kind of situations but you CAN keep your pets secured and safe. Don't let them run off to go potty but instead have all remain in sight and under control with a leash.
If you are in an area which frequently floods, where will you go if ordered to evacuate? You can't always dash over to a friend's house with multiple animals and even if you could, are you going to be able to quickly assemble the supplies, food, bowls, litter box, etc? Pack up supplies, bowls, water, towels, flashlights and load the car in advance if possible. See a list of what to bring here.
Evacuation Considerations:
• Make a list for the essentials you won't have access to, should you have to relocate for just a few days all the way up to a week, such as specialty or prescription food and medications.
• Make a list for the essentials you won't have access to, should you have to relocate for just a few days all the way up to a week, such as specialty or prescription food and medications.
• Pack enough dry and canned food in a waterproof plastic tub along with treats or special diet items and include some bones and chew toys to keep dogs occupied.
• Don't forget to grab your most recent vet paperwork, dog license, and vaccination records as you may have to prove that pets are up to date on shots to enter a temporary evacuation facility.
• Bring bowls, extra leashes, clean-up baggies and bedding.
• Be aware of the stress on cats and dogs as the weather changes. Restless animals and storm-phobic pets may benefit from a Thundershirt or having a crate to go into.
• Ensure you have enough water for all humans and animals for at least a week.
• Harnesses are more secure than collars and a 6' regular leash is safer than a retractable.
• Animal should wear I.D. tags and keep them leashed at all times when outdoors or in transit.
• Do not just "let them run outside to potty" even if you normally do that at home. We learn of tragic news about dogs that took off in a panic during a storm so if they go out, YOU go out.
• Have a current photo of your cat, dog or other pet with you, online or in a place you can access if you need to. This is important anytime as pets go missing when least expected, and a good picture is critical to finding a lost animal.
After the Storm:
• Once you return home check all fencing and gates before letting dogs outside. Loss of power or flooding can cause invisible or electric fencing to fail.
• Once you return home check all fencing and gates before letting dogs outside. Loss of power or flooding can cause invisible or electric fencing to fail.
• High wind and heavy rain can mean soft ground and downed trees. Fencing might be damaged or sections washed away so walk the fence line as soon as possible.
• Know your water safety situation and plan according should it be deemed unfit to drink.
Plan ahead - today. Pets are family and despite us all thinking we will always bring them or keep them safe, in a real disaster you simply may not have the luxury of time. Bookmark this post and share with friends to encourage others to prepare as well.
Lost Pet PR | Delmarva's Lost and Found Network
Delaware and Eastern Shore of Maryland & Virginia
