Don’t Leave Your Pet behind if a Hurricane Hits

July 17, 2003

The hurricane season is upon us. As storms approach, the LA/SPCA receives many calls from pet owners asking where they can board their pets if evacuation is imminent. Others, however, do not worry at all and leave their pets in dangerous situations. It is surprising how many people tie their dogs to something in their yard when they choose to leave home.

Animals cannot survive hurricane conditions any better than humans can. Cats have an advantage over dogs in that they can jump to avoid flood waters. Animal Control Officers have rescued many tethered dogs that were chest deep in water when their owners left town.

Animal shelter populations generally swell following thunderstorms. Pets break loose, dig out, or jump fences to try and escape their fear. They become disorientated and lost. Lucky pets find their way to the LA/SPCA so their owners can find them. Some are not so lucky and live on the streets awhile or they are rescued by someone who keeps the animal as their new family member.

Whenever a storm approaches, bring your pet inside or provide a safe escape route from the weather. Leaving your pet outside can end its life. Pets can die from exposure, starvation, and contaminated food or water. If damage to your home occurs, pets can also slip out broken windows and other openings. There is no way to know when your family will be permitted to return home following a hurricane.

Animal shelters do not board pets and many veterinary clinics close their boarding facilities as they, too, are evacuating. Unfortunately, human shelters do not accept animals, so it is critical that you find alternative housing should your family need to go to a shelter.

It’s very important that each pet has securely fastened and up-to-date identification tags whether he stays or goes with you. Consider permanently microchipping your pet so that it can still be identified if the tags are lost. Carry a photo of your pet in case it ends up at an animal shelter. You will need to provide proof of ownership to redeem him.

Clearly, it is best to bring your pet with you when you leave town. Call the LA/SPCA
at 368-5191, for a list of pet friendly hotels.

- Laura Maloney