PET EMERGENCY PLANNING GUIDE: How to Develop an Emergency Plan for Your Pet in Case of a Disaster
Hurricane season begins June 1 and it's as important to create a plan for your pets as it is for your family. Remember that if it's not safe for you, then it's not safe for them. Rescuers can also be endangered when residents evacuate without their pets. They may be forced to enter water-filled areas with live wires to rescue your animals.
In 2005 Hurricane Katrina claimed almost 2,000 lives. Many residents chose to risk the storm rather than evacuate as at that time most shelters did not allow animals. As a result, one year after Katrina, Congress enacted the Pet Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act. The act required state and local governments to create emergency and evacuation plans that include pets.
Many emergency shelters for people still don't allow pets, but now there are provisions for temporary animal shelters, either at the same location as the human shelters or nearby.
In the event you are separated from your pet, it's important for emergency personnel to be able to identify them. A microchip is the best way for them to do so, but at the very least, a collar with their identity is a necessity.
Animal owners can prepare an emergency kit containing the following items:
- A three-day supply of water for each animal
- A three-day food supply, plus a can opener and spoon for wet food
- Medications and their medical history including immunizations and contact information for your veterinarian and yourself
- Photos of your pet, preferably with you in them, in case you need to prove ownership
- A leash
- Bowls or buckets
- A crate or pet carrier
- A small bag of cat litter, scoop and litter box for cats and newspapers and plastic bags for dogs
- Animal first-aid kit
It is best to research in advance the shelters available which are pet friendly in your county. When preparing the list of pet-friendly hotels and shelters, bear in mind that many shelters require that pets have crates or carriers, proof of vaccinations, and that you bring supplies such as food and water. Many are free, but some charge a small fee. It is best to call ahead to verify.
For additional help with your flood, hurricane and wind insurance needs contact Pettineo Insurance Agency today at (954) 493-9424 or visit www.pettineo.com for a free quote.
Pettineo Insurance Agency Inc. provides flood, hurricane and wind insurance in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, North Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Tamarac, Plantation, Lighthouse Point and all of Florida. As an independent agent we represent many top rated companies in both the personal and commercial lines. We place your policy with the company offering the best coverage at a reasonable price. We offer a complete line of personal, commercial, life and health insurance products, designed exclusively for your insurance needs. Serving South Florida for almost 30 years, Pettineo Insurance offers the highly personalized service and stability that you should expect from your insurance agent.
