With Hawaii bracing for its first hurricane in 15 years, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and The Hawaii Island Humane Society strongly urge all pet owners in the path of the storm to take their pets if they have to leave their homes.
Gov. Linda Lingle has already signed an emergency disaster proclamation in anticipation of the arrival of Hurricane Flossie, which is currently a Category 2 hurricane. The best defense in a natural disaster is to be prepared, and it is important to include your pets in all disaster preparedness planning.
The failure to plan for your pets' safety can be devastating. During Hurricane Katrina residents were forced to abandon dogs, cats and other animals by the tens of thousands. Fortunately, you can take simple steps to ensure that your pets will not be left in a dangerous situation.
Many evacuation shelters do not accept pets, so plan in advance where you can go. The Hawaii Island Humane Society's three shelters will be closed for adoptions in preparation for the impending hurricane. Humane Officers will be available 24 hours a day for emergencies and may be contacted at 808-934-5577.
Josi Morgan, Executive Director for the Hawaii Island Humane Society (HIHS) asks that you have an emergency plan for all your animals. Food, housing, medical records, current medications and transportation are all questions that should be discussed with family members. Be prepared. HIHS asks that you bring your pets inside--if it's not safe for you, then it's not safe for your pets.
If you must evacuate your home, please take your animals with you to one of the following locations offering pet friendly shelter on the Big Island:
- Hilo High School
- Kau High School
- Keaau Middle School
- Keaau High School
- Pahoa High School
- Kekaulike High School
- Konowaena High School
- Honokaa High School
- Kalanianaole Middle School
- Waiakea Elementary School
- Waiakea High School
In addition, The HSUS suggests that all pet owners have an emergency supply kit for their pets, including:
• 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 descriptions of pets.
• Up-to-date identification, including an additional tag with the phone number of someone out of the area in the event the pet becomes lost.
• Medications, medical records and a first aid kit stored in a waterproof container.
• Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and carriers to transport pets safely as well as blankets or towels for bedding and warmth. Carriers should be large enough to comfortably house your pet for several hours or even days.
For more information about disaster preparedness, visit www.hsus.org/disaster .
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization – backed by 10 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
