With Hurricane Ike approaching the Gulf Coast, doggies.com presents this guide to animal care during a disaster.
As Texans anticipate Hurricane Ike, a Texas AgriLife Extension Service expert said every family with pets should have an evacuation plan that includes them.
“Typically for a family, the first thing on their mind would be their kids,” said Dr. Linda Willis-Williams, AgriLife Extension director for Harris County. “But the pet is part of the family as well, so preparation for that pet is critical.”
Willis-Williams said three areas of preparation are essential: identification, supplies and means of transportation. “It’s hard to say exactly what the situation will be like during an evacuation for a disaster, so the key is to have all the pet’s paperwork prepared,” she said.
Willis-Williams offered these suggestions for pet identification:
Whether evacuating on your own or relying on public transportation, the family pet should be ready to travel.
“On your way out the door, get that animal ready,” she said. “Large dogs should be on a leash; small pets, cats and little dogs can be placed in a little carrier.”