As you get your batteries and your flashlights together, don’t forget about preparing your pets for hurricane season. Hurricane season has officially started, and this means that we must prepare for the possibility that the power will go out, streets may flood, and we may even have to evacuate. The Louisiana SPCA wants to remind people to not forget about creating an evacuation plan that includes pets.
Did you know that before Hurricane Katrina, it’s estimated that roughly 259,400 families owned pets in New Orleans? Because there was no formal evacuation plan for residents needing assistance or for those with pets, as many as 104,000 pets were left behind. 44 percent of those that chose not to evacuate did so because they refused to leave their pets. ~ SPCA
Hurricane Season Evacuation Pet Checklist
- Food and water. Keep food in an airtight, waterproof container. Water for pets should be in addition to the water you need for yourself and family.
- Medicine and medical records. Keep an extra supply of medicine your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container. All boarding facilities and veterinarian offices require proof of immunization before accepting animals.
- Collar with ID tag; harness or leash. Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times.
- Documents. Place copies of your pet’s microchip information, registration, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clear plastic bag or waterproof container.
- Crate or other pet carrier. Carriers should be large enough for your pet to stand up, completely turn around and lie down. Mark your name, address, phone number and an alternate contact on the carrier.
- Sanitation. Include pet litter, newspapers, towels, plastic trash bags and cleaners in your evacuation bag so you can pick up after your pet.
Other items to consider include: up-to-date pet vaccines, pet ID tags with the most recent address and phone number, microchip updated, and don’t forget to research places to go if you must evacuate such as pet friendly hotels. Learn more from the Louisiana SPCA – HERE.
Louisiana SPCA
The Louisiana SPCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promote, protect and advance the well-being of Louisiana’s companion animals. As the oldest and most comprehensive animal welfare organization in the state, the Louisiana SPCA impacts more than 73,000 homeless and companion animals annually. For more than 130 years, the Louisiana SPCA has been committed to serving the needs of the people and animals in the community and across the region as a 4-Star Charity Navigator rated nonprofit ranking in the top 1% nationally and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Guide Star. For more information, call 504.368.5191 or visit www.louisianaspca.org.
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