Tropical storm Fay is picking up speed and may become a hurricane by Tuesday - bringing heavy rains and strong winds to residents across Florida. The Humane Society of the United States strongly urges all pet owners in the path of the storm to plan ahead for the safety of their animal companions.
“Be prepared to take pets with you when evacuation orders are issued,” advised Jennifer Hobgood, Florida state director for The HSUS. “If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for them. If you are ordered to take shelter in your home, bring your pets inside with you.”
A hurricane warning is in effect for the coast of southwestern Florida from Flamingo to Santa Maria Island. A tropical storm watch on Florida’s east coast was recently extended northward to Cocoa Beach. If Fay continues to grow these areas could face hurricane conditions within the next 24 hours. Hurricanes and tropical storms pose significant safety threats, and evacuations are common during these storms.
The failure to plan for your pets’ safety can lead to tragedy. 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.
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 humanesociety.org/disaster.
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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.
