From Suncoast Humane Society (Englewood, Florida 34224)
As we begin to prepare ourselves and our homes for hurricane season, let us not forget important family members; our pets. We have learned a lot, mostly the hard way, since Hurricane Andrew in 1992 regarding the importance of disaster planning for animals, including our own pets.
Unlike many other forms of disasters such as the tornado that recently destroyed Joplin, Missouri, we normally have the advantage of preparing for a specific time of year and also receiving somewhat of an advanced warning. This does not mean wait until the last minute.
Hurricanes may last a few hours, however recovery can take weeks, even months. Your home may be without power, water or other services making it inhabitable. Prepare in advance if you plan or are forced to evacuate. Pet-friendly hotels, boarding kennels, relatives or friends out of the area are all possibilities.
If your pet is not already microchipped, now is the time to do it. In the event that you are separated from your pet, a microchip can help reunite them with your family, no matter where you may end up. Suncoast Humane Society has created a guide to help you prepare your family and pets for a disaster. This guide includes the items you should pack in a pet’s “disaster kit” along with a listing of pet-friendly shelters in our community and pet-friendly hotels. Click here to download the guide.
