Hurricane Season Safety: A Plan for Your Pets

Jacksonville, FL July 21, 2004 -- Meteorologist predict the entire Unites States coastline has an increased chance of being hit by a major hurricane in 2004. Hurricane season has already begun.

The best protection from a hurricane is to be prepared and have a plan. These plans should include the entire family - even pets. Approximately 65 percent of households in the United States have at least one pet, and 99 percent of those households consider their pets family members.

It is not realistic to think certain areas cannot be affected by a hurricane. The entire Atlantic and Gulf coasts are considered high-risk areas. Inland areas are affected by the high winds, floods and tornados. Florida leads the nation in new residents, and hurricanes are most frequent in this state.

There are a predicted 14 named storms and 60 storm days during the 2004 hurricane season. Hurricane season began June 1 and ends Nov. 30.

To keep loved ones and pets safe, create a disaster plan now.

The most important part of a disaster plan is to prepare for an evacuation. American Red Cross and local shelters do not accept pets, so compiling a list of pet-friendly lodging located inland or on evacuation routes is extremely important.

It can be difficult, if not impossible, to find shelter for a pet in the middle of a disaster. By planning ahead, the task is relatively simple. With more and more Americans traveling with their pets, lodging has become increasing pet-friendly.

To ensure safe travel, create a pet disaster kit. Assemble a kit of essential supplies in sturdy and easily transportable containers. A recommended list of items to be included are medications and copies of medical records; carriers or transports for the pet; current photos in case the pet is lost; a sturdy collar with blank identification tags to put evacuation contact information; food, portable water, manual can opener, cat litter/pan; name and contact information of veterinarian; and pet toys or beds.

Last, make sure pets have identification tags attached to a sturdy harness or collar and leash. Include up-to-date contact and immunization information. If an evacuation order has been issued, either replace the collar with the one in the disaster kit, or secure the evacuation address and phone number on the back of the identification tag.

It is extremely important to keep proper identification tags on pets. Many pets get unintentionally abandoned or separated during disasters, and proper identification helps ensure the pets return home safely.

Even if an evacuation order has not been given, pets may be stressed or upset during a disaster and need extra attention.

For information about disasters in Florida visit floridadisaster.org/. For more information about pet hurricane safety, visit www.redcross.org. A nationwide list of pet-friendly lodging, collars with identification tags and other pet supplies can be found at www.tripswithpets.com.

For additional information: Contact Laura Huddy, laura@tripswithpets.com, Phone: (207) 229-3480 or visit http://www.TRIPSwithPETS.com




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