Remember your pets if you need to evacuate
IN the event of a flood, animals are often forgotten by unprepared owners and can wind up lost, injured or dead.
The State Emergency Service (SES) has urged owners to think about their companions during the floods and has compiled a guide on how to care for animals in an environmental crisis.
Some things you can do now:
Preparing a Home Emergency Plan allows you to develop agreed actions to take before disasters happen and should include arrangements for animals that will either remain on the property or be evacuated. Make sure to include medical and feeding information, food, medicine and other supplies for animals in your Emergency Kit. Ensure all vaccinations remain current. Ensure animals can be easily identified with a microchip and/or secure tag detailing name, contact numbers and current address. Keep a current photo of your pet for identification purposes. When a storm or flood warning is issued:
Bring pets indoors before a storm or a flood. Consider securing them inside, so that they do not run away and can be easily found if you need to evacuate your home. If you have to evacuate your home, it is recommended to take your animals with you if possible. Try not to leave animals unattended or in a motor vehicle during an emergency.If you need to evacuate with your animals:
Use a secure animal carrier/cage, leash or harness to move them to safety. If you must leave animals at home:
Try to contain them in a ventilated, safe area, removing potential hazards from the space. Ensure they have access to plenty of food and fresh water, shelter and bedding. Avoid leaving them chained up if possible, as this may restrict their ability to avoid hazards. In case of flooding, consider leaving your animals in the highest available location, if this is a room consider access to counters or high shelves where they can seek refuge above the waterline. Leave a visible note or sign outside on the door, detailing what companion animals are inside, where they are, how you can be contacted and details of your vet.After the emergency:
Your animals' behaviour can change after an emergency. They might not recognise their surroundings, as often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered. In the days following the event, leash your animals when they go outside and keep close contact, until they become re-oriented. Monitor their behaviour closely - animals can become defensive and aggressive after a stressful event. Be aware of other potentially dangerous animals that may have entered the area during the emergency. Check that your yard is secure and safe. If an animal is missing, contact your local RSPCA, pound and animal shelters to try to locate them. Information from the SES website.
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