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In the first few days after
the disaster, leash your pets when they go outside. Always
maintain close contact. Familiar scents and landmarks may be
altered and your pet may become confused and lost. Downed
power lines are a hazard.
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The behavior of your pets may
change after an emergency. Normally quiet and friendly pets
may become aggressive or defensive. Watch animals closely.
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Ensure that pets who are
outside have access to shelter and clean water.
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Beware of wild or stray
animals. Structures damaged in a storm are particularly
attractive and provide easy access for wildlife.
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Be aware of your surroundings
and avoid wild or stray animals. Call local authorities to
handle both live animals and or dispose of dead animals
according to local guidelines.
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Survey the area inside and
outside your home to identify sharp objects, dangerous
materials, dangerous wildlife, contaminated water, downed
power lines, or other hazards.
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Examine your animals closely,
and contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe
injuries or signs of illness.
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Release equine/livestock in
safe and enclosed areas only. Initial release should take
place during daylight hours, when the animals can be closely
observed.
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Release cats, dogs, and other
small animals indoors only. They could encounter dangerous
wildlife and debris if they are allowed outside unsupervised
and unrestrained.
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Ensure that pets cannot
escape from your home by repairing broken fences.
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Be aware of hazards at nose
and paw or hoof level, particularly debris, spilled
chemicals, fertilizers, and other substances that might not
seem to be dangerous to humans.
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Clean paws of animals to get
rid of any debris and ash.
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Release birds and reptiles
only if necessary and only when they are calm and in an
enclosed room.
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Reintroduce food in small
servings, gradually working up to full portions if animals
have been without food or eaten different food for a
prolonged period.
-
Allow uninterrupted
rest/sleep for all animals to recover from the trauma and
stress.
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If your animals are lost,
physically check animal control and animal shelters daily
for lost animals.
