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The southern coast of the U.S. is bracing for the arrival of Hurricane Ida, which is moving across the Gulf of Mexico and could make landfall as early as Tuesday.
A hurricane watch is underway across more than 322 kilometres of coastline, from the Florida Panhandle to Louisiana, where Gov. Bobby Jindal declared a state of emergency on Sunday.
The hurricane watch means a storm with sustained winds of at least 119 kilometres per hour could strike the area by Tuesday. It also mobilizes public resources used in emergencies.
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Contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.
Before The Disaster
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Make sure that your pets are current on Their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
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Have a current photograph
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Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
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Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for The animal to stand and turn around.
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Plan
your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet
shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and
relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet
during a Disaster.
If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.
During The Disaster
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Animals
brought to a pet shelter are required to have: Proper identification
collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a
carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food
bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and news
papers or trash bags for clean-up.
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Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure Them and remain calm.
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Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.
After The Disaster
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Walk
pets on a leash until They become re-oriented to Their home - often
familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be
confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought
in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a
Disaster.
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If pets cannot be found after a
Disaster, contact The local animal control office to find out where
lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if
possible.
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After a Disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor Their behavior.
Don't forget your pet when preparing a family Disaster plan.
PET Disaster SUPPLY KIT
•Proper identification including immunization records
• Ample supply of food and water
• A carrier or cage
• Medications
• Muzzle, collar and leash