In Case of Emergency
When disaster looms, there are lots of things you
need to do to protect your life and property. Preparing early is the
best defense. Make arrangements for your pets as
part of your family's disaster planning. When you must evacuate your
home, it's best to take your pets with you. Pets are not allowed in
public emergency shelters due to health and safety concerns. If, as
a last resort, you have to leave your pets behind, make sure you
have a plan to ensure their care. This is not only good information
for your birds, but for any pet facing a serious situation such as a
hurricane or storm.
BEFORE
Contact the animal shelter, humane society,
veterinarian or the local emergency management office for local
information on caring for pets in an emergency. Find out if there
are any plans for sheltering pets in an emergency. Your veterinarian
may accept pets in an emergency.
Are there safe locations in your house where
you could leave your pet in an emergency?
- Rooms that are easy to clean such as a
utility room or a bathroom with a supply of fresh water.
- Chose interior rooms without windows, and
remove hanging plants or pictures in large frames, and any
objects that could shatter and present a danger.
- If flooding is possible, the area should
have a way for pets to climb to high counters or platforms.
- Set up different areas for different pets
(if you have dogs and birds).
Buy a pet carrier that allows your pet to
stand up and turn around inside. Train your pet to be comfortable
with the carrier. Feeding now and then in the carrier, playing games
involving it, or feeding treats inside it are good ways to make it
less intimidating.
If your pet is taking any medications or is on
a special diet, ask your veterinarian what you should do in case you
have to leave town with your pet or if you must leave it alone for
several days. An extra supply of any medication needed might be
helpful.
- Make sure collars are in good repair and the correct
name, address, and phone number is on the tag.
- If your bird is banded, make sure your contact information
is on file with the breeder (just in case your bird escapes and
is found by someone later)
Keep your pet's shots current and know where
the records are. Kennels require proof of current vaccinations
before accepting a pet. You don't want to be rushing around trying
to compile paperwork at the last minute.
Contact motels and hotels in communities
outside of your area and find out if they will accept pets in an
emergency.
Don't forget your pets when assembling
emergency supplies:
- Extra food stored in sturdy containers.
- Large capacity self-feeder and water
dispenser
- Extra medications
- Extra potable water
DURING
Animals have instincts about severe weather
changes and will often isolate themselves if they are afraid. Take a
clue from them.
If you evacuate and have to leave your pet at
home, prepare a safe location for it.
- Leave items like their normal bedding and
toys to make them feel more comfortable.
- Leave a two or three day supply of dry
food. Feed from a sturdy container that the pet cannot overturn.
- Leave the water in a sturdy, no-spill
container. Water bottles are very handy, but many birds must be
trained in advance to drink from them.
- At least partially cover the cage with a light sheet for
added security and protection.
If you evacuate and plan to take your pets,
remember to bring your pet's medical records and medicines with your
emergency supplies.
AFTER
If you have to leave after the disaster
strikes, take your pets with you. Pets are not likely to survive on
their own.
Your animals take their queues from their owners. Extra attention
is soothing to both your pets and their keepers.
Behavior of your pets can change after an emergency.
|
