BEFORE THE STORM

For each pet, get a carrier or crate that is large enough to allow your pet to stand and turn around. Help your pet to adjust being in the carrier.

Be sure each pet has current vaccinations, especially rabies and that it's wearing a collar with current animal license tag. Keep a leash handy. We also recommend a second method of identification such as a tattoo or implanted microchip.

If you know you will stay at home, prepare an easily cleaned quiet room, or bathroom away from window, to keep your pet during the storm.

If you know you will evacuate to a public shelter, arrange to board your pet at a kennel, animal clinic, or dependable friend's home. A list of boarding kennels in Broward County is available upon request by calling 305 359 1313 ext. 227.

If you know you will evacuate to a hotel/motel, call first to locate one that allows pets. Many will take reservations. The automobile Club of America publishes a book (for members only) that lists hotels/motels accepting pets. Call 1-800-596-2228 for membership information.

For each pet, have two-week supply of food, treats, and water. To handle pet waste, have enough, newspaper, plastic bags, cleaner, and disinfectants.

Talk to your veterinarian if your pet is on a special diet.

Have a two-week supply of medications.

Spay and/or neuter your pet because they may escape and become pregnant or impregnate other animals.

REMAINING AT HOME DURING A STORM

Noise from a storm can frighten a pet. If possible, keep the pet within sight of the family.

Keep a good supply of newspapers for your pet's sanitary needs. For easier cleaning, keep the pet in the bathroom, utility room, or enclosed garage.

Feed your pet moist or canned food to preserve water.

EVACUATING HOME WITHOUT YOUR PET

Remember, public shelters will not take pets!

Bring your pet indoors to the prepared safe area.

Leave pet food in sturdy containers accessible to pet.

Birds must eat daily, board if possible. If not, put special food dispensers in the cage.

For pet drinking water, fill the bathtub or fill nonspillable containers. If you leave your pet in the bathroom, disinfect the toilet bowl, flush well, and leave the lid open.

Keep small pets confined away from cats and dogs. Never leave a cat with a dog in the same room, even if they get along.

Make sure your cat and/or dog wears a collar with a license tag. We also recommend a second identification method such as a tattoo or implanted microchip. Use a breakaway collar for cats.

PROTECTING YOUR PETS AFTER A HURRICANE

Keep your pets inside after a hurricane. If you take your pet outdoors, keep your dog on a leash and your cat in a carrier.

Pets are more easily lost and confused when outdoors after a storm because of altered scents and landmarks.

There may be fallen power lines and reptiles brought in with high water that could endanger your pet.

Don't allow your pet to drink water or eat food that may have been contaminated.

For more information, call your local chapter of Animal Care and Regulation.
Reprinted with permission of Animal Care and Regulation of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.