This winter saw many severe snow storms across the country, making flooding more likely as spring thawing occurs. Floods pose a threat in all fifty states, yet one-third of pet owners don't have an emergency plan. In light of Flood Safety Awareness Week, the ASPCA is urging pet owners to prepare for floods in advance, increasing the chance of survival for both them and their pets.
Dr. Dick Green, senior director of ASPCA Disaster Response, has led many disaster response operations, rescuing thousands of animals during various floods across the country. Dr. Green led field rescue operations to search for stranded pets and reunite them with their owners following major disasters including Hurricanes Katrina, Sandy, Isaac, Irene, Gustav and Ike.
Dr. Green offers the following tips and more on flood preparedness:
- Obtain a rescue alert sticker, which will let rescuers know that pets are inside your home.
- Make sure all pets wear collars and ID tags with up-to-date identification. The ASPCA also recommends micro-chipping your pet as a more permanent form of I.D.
- Keep a pet emergency kit and supplies handy with items such as medical records, water, pet food and medications, and pet first aid supplies.
- In the event of evacuation, do not leave your pets behind.
- Know what risks your area faces. Find out if your house is in a floodplain and the fastest way that you and your pets can get to higher ground.
