Pet to-dos when a hurricane or disaster strikes

With one hurricane already on the books this year, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reminds pet owners to think now about how to care for their animals during a hurricane or severe summer storm.

“Don’t wait until the National Hurricane Center announces that a storm is bearing down on the East Coast or Mid-Atlantic,” advises State Veterinarian Richard Wilkes. “The time to start hurricane planning is now. As you plan for your family, remember that planning for your animals is also important.”

In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. If it’s not safe for you to stay behind then it’s not safe to leave pets behind either.

VDACS suggests the following tips for keeping pets safe:

• Make sure pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet’s ID tag should contain name, telephone number and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to write your pet’s name, your name and contact information on your pet’s carrier. Consider microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification.

• Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.

• Keep a pet emergency supply kit with: three-or-more-day supply of food and drinking water; bowls for food and water; current photos and physical description of your pets, including details on markings; medications, vaccination records (especially rabies records) and first aid pet supplies; comfort items such as a toy and blanket; small garbage bags; for dogs - a leash, harness and a sturdy carrier large enough to use as a sleeping area; and for cats - a litter box and litter as well as a sturdy carrier large enough for transport.

• Keep a list of pet friendly places, including phone numbers, with your disaster supplies in case you need to evacuate.  Many hotels, motels, campsites and other facilities around the country now allow pets. Check out AAA or petswelcome.com to find a list of those in your area. Hotels and motels may be willing to waive “no pet” restrictions in an emergency. Friends and family members living outside the area may be able to provide shelter, too.

• Pet owners should be aware that many emergency shelters do not accept pets - check with your local emergency management office to determine if a pet-friendly emergency shelter will be set up in your location.

For more tips on preparedness plans that include your pets, visit ready.gov or HumaneSocietyTips.