PETS: What to do with our furry and feathered friends when a Hurricane threatens

Florida Keys Hurricane Guide 2009

Frightened animals quickly slip out open doors, broken windows or other damaged areas of your home opened by a storm.  Released pets are likely to die from exposure, starvation, predators, contaminated food and water, or on the road where they can endanger others.  Even normally friendly animals of different species should not be allowed together unattended since the stress of a hurricane may cause distinct behavior changes.

All Monroe County Shelters Now Accept Pets

All Monroe County Shelters are now accepting residents who wish to evacuate with their pets. Pet owning evacuees must provide the appropriate cages or crates for animals, and ample food, water, and bedding materials. Due to Health Department regulations, evacuated animals will be housed in separate pet shelter facilities. Residents are encouraged to plan for regular feeding and animal care sessions.

In the unfortunate case of high winds and unsafe storm conditions, Emergency Management will instruct residents to remain in shelters while properly trained staff attends to the animals. 

Evacuating with your pets

All animals should have secure carriers (or collapsing cages for large dogs) as well as collars, leashes and rabies tags. Carriers should be large enough for the animals to stand comfortably and turn around. Train your pets to become familiar with their carriers ahead of time because the carrier will be secure and comforting refuge if the animal is required to live in it for a few days or even weeks after the hurricane.

Before hurricane season begins on June 1 of each year, make sure all your pets have current immunization and take these records with you if you must evacuate.
Photograph each of your pets prior to June 1 every year and include these pictures with your immunization and allergy records.

Your pet survival kit should include ample food(at least 2 weeks supply); water/food bowls; medications; specific cage instructions; newspapers and plastic trash bags for handling waste; brushes, combs and other hygiene items; toys and other comfort items; muzzles if necessary. A manual opener is a necessity. All belongings should be marked with identification. If you are not evacuating your pet to a commercial facility, you should also include first aid supplies for your pet in a survival kit.

Take first aid and CPR courses and keep manuals handy. The same basic principles apply to animals. Ask your vet for an emergency care pamphlet for animals.

If you plan to shelter your pets at a kennel or clinic, call before evacuating to determine if space is available. Allow sufficient time to travel from the kennel to you evacuation location after making certain that your animals are secure. The facility you choose should be operated by knowledgeable and capable staff and the location should be high, dry and of sturdy construction including hurricane shutters.

Throughout the evaluation and the storm, your pet will need reassurance from you. Remain calm, and speak to them regularly in calm, reassuring voice.
 

Exotic Pets

If you have exotic pets, contact local pets stores or zoological gardens in a safe area for assistance in sheltering your pet. Again, be prepared to supply appropriate housing for the pet (not glass) and other supplies necessary to sustain the pet for at least 2 weeks.

If you must leave your pets at home

Your pets will be most comfortable and secure in a safe area of your home until the hurricane has passed. If they are not secured during the storm and your house is damaged, your pets may escape and become disoriented, since normal landmarks and scent trails could be obliterated. If your pets become lost, proper ID will insure their return to you.

Place your pet food and medications in water-tight containers in cool, dry, dark place. Store adequate water for your pets. If you plan to bring plants into your home before a hurricane, be careful not to allow pet’s access to them since many ornamental plants are poisonous.
 

After the storm

Walk your pet on a leash until they become reoriented to their home. Do not allow pets to consume food or water that may have become contaminated. When you know you have done everything you can do to protect all members of the family, disaster preparedness will give you peace of mind.