Hurricane Preparedness For Your Pets

Hurricane Irene is approaching! Here are some suggestions for disaster preparedness for people with pets from the RI DEM:
1. Make arrangements NOW for your pet's safety. If you need help to evacuate and have a pet, inform your local public safety office or emergency manager as soon as possible.
2. Be sure pet licenses and vaccines are up to date!
3. Assemble the following Pet ID pack(one for each pet) in a waterproof envelope or bag. It should contain:
a. Proof of pet ownership such as copies of adoption papers, registration papers, proof of purchase, microchip/tatoo numbers etc. List each animal indicating it's species/breed, age, sex whether spayed/neutered,color and distinguishing marks.
b. A recent photo of the pet.
c. Copy of pet's current medical records, including vaccination history, rabies certificate, important test results and existing medical conditions.
d. Current prescriptions. Provide specific dosing information.
e. The name of your pets veterinary hospital.
f. Contact information for a "buddy' such as a reliable friend, neighbor or relative who lives reasonable far away(ie. a place not likely to be flooded under the same conditions as yours).
g. Any special care instructions such as dietary restrictions.
4. Keep a copy of PET ID pack with you and send a copy to your "buddy".
5. In case it is best to stay put, identify a place at home to keep your pet indoors, ideally compfortable, convenient and sheltered from outside elements.
6. If evacuation is necessary, DO NOT assume public shelters will take pets(except for service dogs such as guide dogs. Having a list of kennels and pet-friendly hotels or relatives who can accommodate your pets would be helpful.
7.Arrange now for transportation of oets and carriers, especially if you need assistance.
8.Assemble the following items in a GO KIT, ready to grab and go with you in case of evacuation.
a. The PET ID pack.
b. A cage, carrier or crate.
c. A proper fitting collar to be warn AT ALL TIMES.
d. A sturdy leash.
e. Identification affixed to the collar, crate or carrier. Include contact information for yourself.
f. First aid kit.
g. Three day supply of food for your pet, preferably dry food because refrigeration may be unavailable for storing unused canned food.Include a 3 day supply of water.Include bowls.
h. Three day supply of medications.
i. Kitty litter and bedding.
j. Flashlights and batteries.



I hope this information is helpful and that everyone rides out the storm safely, including your beloved pets.Please make sure all outdoor cats are brought indoors before the storm arrives.If you have outdoor rabbits in hutches, they should be brought indoors as well.

Stay Safe!

Joyce Gifford DVM