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Make a Plan
Remember, during a disaster what’s good for you is good for your pet, so get them ready today. If you leave your pets behind, they may be lost, injured or worse. Never leave a pet chained outdoors. Plan options include:
- Have a plan in case you’re not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your animals.
- Where will your pet stay during an emergency?
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- Pender County will designate one shelter as pet-friendly.
- Find pet friendly hotels along your evacuation route and keep a list in your pet’s emergency kit.
- Locate boarding facilities or animal hospitals near your evacuation shelter.
- Consider an out-of-town friend or relative.
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- Consider having your pet microchipped and make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.
- Most boarding kennels, veterinarians, and animal shelters will need your pet’s medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.
- If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger!
Tips for Large Animals
If you have large animals such as horses, cattle, sheep, goats or pigs on your property, be sure to prepare before a disaster.
- Ensure all animals have some form of identification.
- Evacuate animals whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
- Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers.
- Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment.
- If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to shelter or turn them outside.
- DO NOT WAIT TO MOVE LARGE ANIMALS.
Build a Kit
Include basic survival items and items to keep your pet happy and comfortable. Your kit should include:
- Food (at least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container)
- Water (at least three days of water specifically for your pets)
- Medicines
- Medical records, proof of vaccinations, registration and adoption documents (talk to your veterinarian about microchipping)
- First aid kit (cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol, saline solution and a pet first aid reference book)
- Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash
- Crate or pet carrier (a sturdy, safe crate or carrier large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down)
- Sanitation needs (litter box and litter, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach)
- A picture of you and your pet together to prove ownership (add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics)
- Familiar items (treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet)