After days of rain in Arkansas and Missouri, rivers and creeks are nearing capacity and runoff is causing flash flooding in some areas, placing The Humane Society of the United States' Emergency Services personnel on standby to help if needed.
Meanwhile, The HSUS urges pet owners in the region to immediately gather supplies and prepare to take your pets with you if an evacuation order is issued, or if you feel unsafe. Remember: If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. The HSUS also advises pet owners to evacuate early to avoid the stress of gridlock on the evacuation routes.
All pet owners should have an emergency supply kit on-hand for their animals, which should include:
- Three or more days' supply of food in airtight, water proof containers, and drinking water.
- Bowls for food and water.
- Current photos (preferably of you with your pet), and physical descriptions of pets, including details about markings.
- Medications, vaccination records and first aid pet supplies.
- Comfort items such as a toy and a blanket.
- Small garbage bags.
- For dogs, include a leash, harness and a sturdy carrier large enough to use as a sleeping area.
- For cats, include litter, a litter box and a sturdy carrier large enough for transport and for your cat to use as a temporary "apartment" for several days.
The HSUS also advises:
- Placing the pet emergency supply kit by the door or directly in your car so it is ready to go if you need to evacuate quickly.
- Making sure your pet has visible identification on right now, before you have to leave home.
- Talking with a trusted neighbor who is home during the workday and can evacuate your pets if you are away.
When officials call for an evacuation, pet owners should be aware that hotels and motels may be willing to lift "no pet" restrictions in emergencies. Friends and family members living outside the area may be able to provide shelter, too. Please check with your local animal shelter or emergency management office to determine the location of pet-friendly shelters in your area.
More than 358 million pets reside in 63 percent of American households. A Zogby International poll found that 61 percent of pet owners will not evacuate if they cannot bring their pets with them.
For more tips about preparedness plans for your pets, including horses and farm animals, visit humanesociety.org/prepare.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.
