Make plans now to take care of your pets.
Public emergency shelters do not allow pets because of health and safety regulations. Animals that assist people with disabilities are the only animals allowed in shelters. It may be very difficult to find shelter for your pets during a disaster. It is vital that you plan ahead for the safety of your pet.
Find a Safe Place for Your Pet.
* Call hotels/motels along your evacuation route. Find out what their policies are regarding pets. If there is a "No Pets" policy, ask if they can waive the policy because of the emergency.
* Make a list of pet-friendly places now. Include telephone numbers & addresses of pet boarding facilities or veterinarians on your list.
* Ask friends or relatives who live outside the affected area if they would be willing to care for your pets.
Call Animal Shelters:
* Ask if emergency shelter is provided during disasters. Contact the Louisiana SPCA (504) 368-5191 for a list of pet-friendly hotels to ride out the storm. Call before you need to evacuate.
* Pet friendly shelters may be opened during an evacuation. This information will be available at shelter information points.
* Local SPCA shelters are usually closed and not an option for safe boarding during storm threats.
Pet Supply List:
* Medical records & vaccination records stored in waterproof container.
* Medication, enough for 7 days, also in a waterproof container.
* First-aid Kit.
* Identification tag & papers. Vets now offer a computer chip ID that is inserted in a dog's neck under the skin. For only $20-30, it's an affordable and reliable way to ensure you pet's safe return home.
* Leashes & collars.
* Current photos, just in case they get lost.
* Pet food, at least a 7-day supply, and bowls, plus can opener, if needed.
* Drinkable water, at least a 7-day supply, and bowls. Estimate one quart per large dog per day (4 quarts = 1 gallon, 1 quart = 1 liter). Smaller dogs use less. Do not let your pet drink any water that could be contaminated.
* Cat litter & litterbox.
* Pet beds & toys, if easily packed & taken along.
* Kennel, the appropriate size for your pet.
* Plastic bags, newspaper & cleaning supplies, in case there are accidents on the road.
As The Storm Approaches:
* Remember to keep your pets securely leashed. They may panic and try to hide, escape, or even bite or scratch.
* Call ahead to confirm your emergency shelter location.
* Check your pet supplies.
* Bring all pets indoors. Do not them tied to a leash outside.
* Leave your pet only as a last resort. If you leave your pet, keep them in an enclosed room such as a garage, utility room or bathroom.
* Provide your pets with an escape route. If pets are left inside the house, position cabinets or tables so pets can climb higher ahead of rising flood waters.
* Provide plenty of water if you are leaving your pets behind. Fill a bathtub or a non-spill container with water. In an emergency pets can survive for several days without food -- but not without water.
* Remember to leave food.
Special Care for Birds:
* Transport birds in secure cage or carrier.
* Bring a blanket to wrap the cage with in case your shelter is cold from air conditioning.
* Carry a spray bottle to mist the birds' feathers periodically during warm weather.
* Do not put water in the carrier during transport.
* Give your bird fresh fruits & vegetables with high water content.
* Line the carrier with paper towels if it does not have a perch. Change the paper towels frequently.
* Do not let birds out of their cage.
Care For Other Pets:
Reptiles:
* Use a pillowcase to transport snakes.
* Place snakes in a more secure container when you reach your destination.
* Carry food with you if your snake needs to be fed often.
* Bring a large water bowl for your snake to soak in and don't forget the heating pad.
* House lizards should be treated the same as birds during a disaster.
Small Pets:
* Small pets such as, hamsters, gerbils, etc. should also be put in a secure carrier.
* Be sure they have their food, bowls, water bottles and bedding supplies.
Noah's Wish:
The mission of Noah's Wish is to save animals during disasters with rescue and recovery services.
How to contact Noah's Wish:
www.NoahsWish.com
(916) 939-9474
(618) 363-0592
(618) 792-4173
non-emergency e-mail: info@noahswish.org
