Disaster Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets

ASPCA Reminds Pet Parents to Prepare for Summer’s Extreme Weather

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) reminds pet parents that while June signifies the beginning of summer fun for many, it also marks the start of Hurricane Season—the six-month stretch of extreme weather conditions, including tornadoes and other forms of intense weather that wreak havoc on various regions throughout the country and threaten the safety of humans and animals alike.

“Before tragedy strikes, we urge all Americans, including those with pets, to have an emergency plan in place,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “Preparing your family for a disaster will not only save the life of you and your loved ones, but it will also ease the anxiety in its aftermath.”

The ASPCA offers these tips on emergency preparedness: 

• If you receive storm warnings, bring your pets inside and make sure they have plenty of food and water.
•  Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation—do NOT leave your pets behind.
• Many disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety regulations, so it is vital to determine where your pets can stay ahead of time.
•  Keep emergency pet supplies, an ASPCA “Pet Grab ’N Go Bag” (one for each pet), and travel kits handy and make sure everyone in the family knows where they are kept.
• Get a “Rescue Alert” sticker, which is visible to rescue workers and includes vital information about your pets and veterinarian.
•  Choose a designated caregiver who can take care of your pet in the event you are unable.

For a detailed list of emergency and evacuation preparedness suggestions, please visit http://www.aspca.org/pets_emergency