Emergency preparedness important for pets
To the editor,
It’s been five years since Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Gulf Coast, and while homes and even communities have been rebuilt, the beloved animal companions who were lost or killed in the storm can never be replaced.
As we remember all who were lost in Hurricane Katrina, let’s also make plans to ensure that all our family members are safe if a disaster strikes. Here are some tips:
• Always take animals along in evacuations. It may be weeks before you can return home, leaving animals stranded without food or water.
• Scout out places where you and your animals can stay during an evacuation. Friends, family and hotels are good options.
• Make sure animals are current on vaccinations and are wearing collars with identification tags.
• Assemble an emergency kit: Include leashes, bowls, towels, blankets, litter pans and litter, and at least a week’s supply of food and medications.
• If you must leave animals behind, leave them indoors, with access to upper floors and at least 10 days’ worth of dry food and water (fill sinks and multiple containers). Place signs in windows and on the front door indicating the number and type of animals inside — rescue teams may be able to save them.
Visit www.HelpingAnimals.com for more emergency-preparedness tips.
Lindsay Pollard-Post
The PETA Foundation
Norfolk, Va.