Hurricane Preparedness

According to the City of New Orleans' Office of Emergency Preparedness a hurricane that is a Category 3 or above and headed toward New Orleans from the southeast (up the mouth of the Mississippi River), could be dangerous enough to put the city under 20 feet of water. With this scenario, it would take up to three weeks to pump the water out and restore utilities to the area. Therefore, when making your evacuation plans and getting the supplies you will need, keep this in mind. For the safety of your pets and for your own peace of mind, the LA/SPCA advises the following procedures for this hurricane season. [Remember Katrina? Who could forget? Get out and take your pet with you!]

At The Beginning of Hurricane Season

Make a commitment to take your animals with you when you evacuate. If the conditions are not safe for you they are not any safer for your pet(s). Leaving your pet tied up outside to a tree or a fence is not an option. Leaving your pet indoors is risky due to floods from tidal surges which could trap your animal in a house filling quickly with water. You need to find a safe area outside of the danger zone for you and your pet(s).

Get your pet's evacuation supplies ready to go. This includes ample supplies of pet foods, kitty litter, water and any required medicines (i.e. heartworm medicine, sedatives, motion sickness pills). Also pack extra bowls, a litter box, plastic bags, newspaper, paper towels and cleaning supplies in case of accidents wherever you go.

Get a portable pet carrier (or metal cages) NOW! Last year, pet supply stores sold out of carriers/cages because everyone needed carriers at the same time. This will also give you a chance to select the proper size and style for your pet(s). In some cases, you may have to order a special cage or carrier that is not normally stocked. This item is important because many hotels and motels will accept you and your pet if you have a carrier or cage. Put some type of identification on your carrier with your pet's name included and if possible, a photo of your pet.

Make sure your vaccinations are current and make copies of your records to take with you. Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccination, and if your pet does bite someone, having proof of rabies shots will be helpful.

Get a properly fitted collar with up-to-date rabies and identification tags. This could be their round-trip ticket in the event they get lost. Dogs need a leash appropriate for their size.

Compile a list of possible places to go in the event of an evacuation. This should include family, friends, hotels and boarding facilities outside of the danger area. Do not plan to leave your pet anywhere within the hurricane strike zone - even if a boarding facility is willing to take your animal. This is not necessarily safer than anywhere else in the city.

When a Hurricane Strike is Likely

Start calling places to go with your pet(s). Make hotel or boarding facility reservations, outside hurricane strike zone, if needed.

Get your pet supplies and carriers ready to go.

Make final plans to leave the city. Call 581-PETS for additional information or if you need assistance with a particular problem.

When Evacuation is Strongly Recommended

Load up your personal items, your pet supplies, your pets and go!

If traveling by car, make sure your pets have good ventilation and water periodically. Make regular stops along the way for bathroom breaks.

Do not leave your four-legged friends in the danger zone! If it is not safe for you, it is not safe for your pet(s).

If you need help devising a plan, please call (504) 581-PETS or (504) 368-5191. Be prepared in the event of disaster, visit PetsWelcome.com.