Hurricane Katrina was a heartbreaking lesson in what happens to pets when a natural disaster and lack of planning collide. Experts estimate that 100,000 to 250, 000 pets were stranded because shelters and evacuation routes didn’t accommodate them. Tragically, between 70,000 and 150, 000 pets died. Pet owners suffered, too. Many refused to evacuate without beloved animals, instead remaining in deadly conditions. In the storm’s aftermath, loose companion animals – frightened and hungry – endangered first responders and residents.
“The situation for companion animals during Katrina couldn’t have been more tragic. Fortunately, many disaster preparations now take animals into account,” says Andrew Golkin, President of Paul Davis of Suburban Virginia, who notes that in Canada, 56% households own a pet; 8.5 million cats and 7.9 million dogs enjoy their Canadian residence. “We’re animal lovers at Paul Davis and most of our customers are, too. We are talking more and more about six essential steps to safeguard furry friends before disaster threatens.”
- Flag pet presence for first responders: Post window decals – easily purchased online - that alert first responders to pets on the property.
- Identify and protect your pet: Microchip the animal, if possible, and hang tags on collars stating name, address and contact information. Some owners favor electronic tracking devices on collars as well. Maintain vaccination schedules and ongoing preventative medications like heartworm and flea/tick preparations.
- Consider calming methods: Many pets are terrified of storms, lightning, surging water and high winds. They may become unpredictable or even aggressive as the disaster unfolds. Investigate one of the many natural supplements available over the counter, or contact your veterinarian for advice.
- Learn community rules regarding pets in disasters: Canadian provinces offer recommendations that address disaster planning for pets and service animals. This emergency checklist is a useful guide of what to do to gather an emergency kit for your pet. https://open.alberta.ca/publications/emergency-kit-checklist-for-your-pets
Take time before disaster strikes to learn about your community rules for local pets.
- Prepare a “go bag” for your pet: A well-stocked bag includes animal licenses, immunization records, a week’s worth of food, collapsible bowls, restraints, waste management supplies, medications, prescriptions, vet information and comfort items.
- Assign pet responsibilities: Who will handle and manage your pet during a disaster? Designate the responsible party well in advance to avoid confusion as a disaster unfolds.
“Surveys show that most dogs and cat owners consider their pets to be full-fledged family members, and exotic animal owners likely feel the same,” Golkin says. “We owe it to pets to plan for their safety just as we plan to shield human loved ones from harm.”