HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS KIT FOR VETERINARIANS AND VETERINARY PRACTICES IN 2020 Another hurricane season has arrived. Preparing for these storms is a song and dance practiced each year. Recently, many of the hurricanes have been bigger, deadlier and more costly than those of previous years. The Atlantic Coast and the Central Florida area were spared from any major hurricane damage in 2019 when Dorian traversed just out of range. However, areas to the east, like the Bahamas, were not so lucky. At least 70 people died, along with more than 200 animals on multiple islands that were unable to swim in the deadly floods. During uncertain times, it is important to remain prepared for, not scared of, what lies ahead. Your clients choose to bring animals into their homes, and these animals cannot fend for themselves when huge storms approach. The following tools will help pet owners and veterinary practices prepare for major storms.
ADVICE TO PASS ALONG TO YOUR CLIENTS
While many clients will have previously weathered hurricanes with their pets, some may be first-time pet owners or may have just moved to an area with hurricanes. Remind your clients that pets should be kept inside during the storm and indoor accommodations made for them to ‘go potty.’ It is also important to make sure the client knows that if they choose to evacuate, the pet should go with them. If it’s not safe for the pet owner, it’s not safe for their pets. As hurricanes approach, and chaos ensues, consider emailing your clients with the following recommendations.
KEEP YOUR PET IN DISASTER-READY CONDITION
• Ensure all of your pets’ collars and tags have up-to-date contact information. ▶ Microchipping a pet is one of the best ways to find them again should they become lost. • Have proper equipment for pets to ride in the car with you (this is especially important for cats or exotics, who may not leave your house often). • Pet carriers are needed at many shelters and can serve as a safe space for a nervous pet. They are highly recommended when transporting your pet. The pet carrier should be the correct size (the pet should be able to stand, turn around and lay down comfortably). Be sure to label the carrier with your pet's name, breed, sex, date of birth, your current address and contact numbers, and any important medical information. • Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash. ▶ Carry at least one slip leash. A simple slip-type webbing or nylon leash will ensure you have a way to restrain a dog (or even a cat) in the event they slip out of their collar or harness.
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WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR PET'S DISASTER KIT • At least three days to two weeks’ worth of food and water specifically for your pet stored in sealed containers. ▶ If your pet’s regular diet includes canned food, remember to have a manual can opener with you. ▶ Don’t forget bowls to serve your pet’s meals • At least two weeks’ worth of any medication they require in a sealed, airtight container. • Important documents such as any registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Photocopied records of your rabies certificate, vaccinations and medical summaries should be stored in a waterproof container. • A first aid kit particularly for your pet. May include bandage rolls, tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. A pet first aid reference book is a good idea too. • Hygiene and grooming supplies. Any sanitation items and products you need to clean and clean up after your pet. Consider pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach. • A picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in the event you become separated. If it is a printed photo, consider noting the pet's species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics on the back of the photo. • Familiar items, such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet. Toys will also help keep your pet occupied.
ASK, DON’T ASSUME
Be sure to secure accommodations for your pet before the storm. Every time a hurricane approaches, false information circulates on social media. A common myth is that there are laws requiring all hotels to allow pets in their rooms during an evacuation notice. This statement is not true and can put you in a tough spot if all other pet-friendly hotels in your area are already booked. Ask ahead of time if the location you plan to evacuate to is comfortable with every pet you will be bringing when you arrive there. There are also plenty of websites where you can verify if a hotel or shelter will be pet-friendly.
For more information, visit CDC.gov and search “Pet Safety in Emergencies.”
