Disaster Recovery of
Animals
Disaster recovery of
animals… an interesting topic! The big question that you are asking
is probably why am I talking about this? Well everyone talks about
IT disaster recovery and I thought I might spend twenty minutes on
our furry friends as they are a big part of our lives.
Disaster recovery of
animals - plan
Contact your
veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing
your pets for an emergency.
Disaster recovery of
animals – before
Make sure that your
pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require
proof of vaccines. Have a current photograph. Keep a collar with
identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your
pet.
Have a properly-sized
pet carrier for each animal — carriers should be large enough for
the animal to stand and turn around. Plan your evacuation strategy
and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control
shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's
way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster. Learn
about the AKC Companion Animal Recovery Program. If you plan to
shelter your pet — work it into your evacuation route planning.
Disaster recovery of
animals – during
Animals brought to a
pet shelter are required to have: Proper identification collar and
rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or
cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any
necessary medications, specific care instructions and newspapers or
trash bags for clean-up.
Bring pets indoor well
in advance of a storm — reassure them and remain calm. Pet shelters
will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and
determine availability.
Disaster recovery of
animals – after
Walk pets on a leash
until they become re-oriented to their home — often familiar scents
and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and
become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high
water, and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a
disaster.
If pets cannot be
found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to
find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture
of your pet if possible. After a disaster animals can become
aggressive or defensive — monitor their
behavior.
Hey guys… Let’s be
careful out there!
