Protecting Pets in a Disaster
My-Dog.info > Dog Care
by Karen A. Kandra
When we think of "disasters" we usually envision
large scale emergencies, such as earthquakes, floods, tornadoes,
etc. However, much more common are personal disasters which could
be just as devastating to individual families as a huge
cataclysmic event. House fires, extended power outages, car
accidents, or sudden hospitalization are examples of events which
may call for alternative care of our pets.
Preparation
It is best to prepare an emergency response plan prior to any
crisis to avoid suffering to our four-legged friends. The
American Red Cross provides excellent materials which will also
help you and your family to develop an emergency plan. You should
decide ahead of time who will be responsible for pet care if any
emergency strikes. Choose the best room in the house to leave
your pet if necessary. Make arrangements with neighbors. Be sure
they have keys to your home along with specific information as to
what pets are there, where they are located, and instructions for
any medication needed. It also helps if your pets are familiar
with your neighbors ahead of time, so they will not be dealing
with strangers, and adding to the stress. Train your pet to a
crate. In a crisis, he may need to be transported, and the ordeal
will be less stressful if the crate is a comfortable and familiar
place. Always keep pet's vaccinations current.
It is a good idea to prepare a disaster kit for your pet which
should include: collars, tags, and leashes, a muzzle or gauze
bandage, two-week supply of dry food, water, bowls, paper towels,
and plastic bags for waste clean-up, and copies of pet's medical
and vaccination records. Your pet's crate should be labeled with
the pet's name, your name, and where you may be reached, or an
out-of-area phone contact, if phone lines are down, and any
specific medical instructions for the animal.
Prepare a telephone tree, with numbers of family, friends,
veterinarian, local animal control, or shelter, local hotels
which accept pets, etc.
During the Disaster
Animals can sense danger, and may panic and try to hide when
fearful. To avoid injury and escape, crate the pet immediately,
if a crisis is imminent. In certain emergencies it may be
necessary to temporarily evacuate the area. This may include
evacuation of animals. For pets, veterinary hospitals, boarding
kennels or fairgrounds may be utilized as holding facilities,
where it is not possible for animals to accompany their owners to
emergency shelters. Under no circumstances should you ever leave
your pet tied up or loose to fend for themselves. It is best to
leave them in a room without windows, such as a bathroom, to
prevent them from escaping or being injured from broken glass, in
certain situations. If they will be left for several days, leave
thick newspapers to absorb waste, and warm bedding. Remember,
there may be extended power outages. Unplug all electrical
applicances, and cover all electrical outlets with plastic or
duct tape to avoid electrocution. If you have two of the same
type of animals who get along well, leave them together for
company. Keep exotic pets in separate rooms, since many reptiles
can be dangerous to disaster personnel who do not know how to
handle them. Post signs on door indicating what is in the room.
Be sure to provide a large supply of water in a heavy bowl
which will not tip over, or leave water in tubs, or sinks, where
the animal has access to it. Remove all flammable and poisonous
chemicals from the room, and turn off all electricity.
After the Disaster
The behavior of pets often changes following a disaster.
Normally quiet cats and dogs may become aggressive or defensive.
Recovery from the disaster may take several days, weeks, or
months. During the period of adjustment here are some
recommendations:
- Check your pet for injury and/or exposure to chemicals.
Consult your veterinarian when in doubt.
- Use care when releasing your pet from their crate.
Familiar scents and sights may be gone. Downed power
lines, or debris may pose serious threats to animals.
Release only into an enclosed room or yard to prevent
escape.
- If your pet was without food and water for an extended
time, allow him to eat/drink small amounts every few
hours.
- Allow your pet to have plenty of sleep and provide
familiar toys while it becomes re-acclimated to its
surroundings.
Hopefully, you will never face a major disaster, but it pays
to remember your pets as part of your household disaster
planning. If you must evacuate your home, it is best to take your
pets with you. However, if you must leave them behind, advance
plans for their care will ensure their health and safety.
The author acknowledges Dr. Sebastian E. Heath, B.SC.,
VetMB, MvetSci, MRCVS, Dipl.ACVIM, and Dr. Joseph Paige, D.V.M.,
M.P.H. for providing assistance in the preparation of this
article.
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