WASHINGTON – With the possibility that Tropical Storm Alberto will be upgraded to hurricane status, The Humane Society of the United States is urging residents in the path of the storm to prepare for their pets with supplies and a plan of where to go with their pets if evacuation is necessary.
The HSUS has a field response team deployed near the West Coast of Florida, which is the area first expected to receive the brunt of the storm when it makes landfall.
"Ideally, you should develop a plan before disaster strikes," said Randy Covey, director of Disaster Services for The HSUS. "But with the chance that Alberto will develop into a full blown hurricane, there are some simple preparations you can make now in the face of the storm that can make things easier on you, your pet and emergency workers if evacuation orders are issued.”
Pet emergency supply kits for dogs should include:
• A three-day supply of food and drinking water
• Bowls for food and water
• Plastic bags for waste disposal
• Current photos and physical descriptions, including details on markings
• A collar and ID tag
• Medications, vaccination records, license and first aid supplies
• Leashes, harnesses and a sturdy carrier large enough for your dog to comfortably sleep in.
Pet emergency supply kits for cats should include:
• A three-day supply of food and drinking water, as well as bowls, cat litter and a container to be used as a litter box
• Current photos and physical descriptions
• Cats should wear a collar and ID tag
• Medications, vaccination records, license and first aid supplies
• Sturdy carrier to transport cats safely as well as blankets or towels for bedding and warmth
• Carriers should be large enough to comfortably house your cat for several days and to allow for separate areas for elimination (litter in a small litter box) and feeding
Covey emphasized the need for people to have a planned destination in mind for where they will go with their pets if they must evacuate. “Many evacuation shelters still do not accept pets,” Covey said. “ ‘No Pet’ restrictions at hotels and motels may be lifted in an emergency but it's wise to check in advance. Contact friends or family members living outside the area who may be able to help with sheltering pets. Katrina has taught us that a little preparation can go along way to assuring our pets will be safe in an emergency.”
For more information go to The HSUS Disaster Center on the web at www.hsus.org.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization representing more than 9.5 million members and constituents. The non-profit organization is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research, equine protection and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy, and field work. The group is based in Washington and has numerous field representatives across the country. On the web at www.hsus.org.
