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Press Releases
September
1, 2005
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org
Are You
and Snoopy Prepared for a Disaster?
MILWAUKEE
? Tornadoes, floods and other emergencies can occur
in Milwaukee . Are you and your companion animal
prepared for disasters? In light of Hurricane Katrina,
the Wisconsin Humane Society would like to remind
the guardians of companion animals about the following
tips to keep you and Snoopy safe in a disaster.
• If you
evacuate your home, take your companion animals!
Animals left behind in a disaster can easily become
injured, lost or killed. If furry friends have to
fend for themselves, they are likely to become victims
of exposure, starvation and more. Also, never leave
your pooch tied outside in a disaster ? this is
a death sentence.
•
Plan ahead. Many evacuation shelters do not accept
companion animals, so it is imperative that animal
guardians have a list of hotels that accept animals.
It is also a good idea to check with family and
friends to see if they are willing to take you and
your companion animal in in the event of a disaster.
•
Always make sure your companion animal is wearing
up-to-date identification at all times. It is even
suggested that a phone number be featured on the
back of the tag in the event Snoopy separates from
you.
•
If you are not able to evacuate due to the severity
of the storm, make sure you keep your animals with
you in your home at all times. Also be sure to grab
food and water along with your emergency supplies,
have any medications, and keep dogs on leashes and
cats in carriers.
•
Make arrangements with a trusted neighbor well in
advance to take your companion animals in the event
you are not near home. This includes leaving your
neighbor access to get into your home and information
about where you store food and any medications your
animal might need.
•
Prepare for a disaster ? develop a disaster kit
for you and Snoopy. Your furry friend's kit should
include medications, medical records, leashes and
carriers as well as food and water along with a
feeding schedule, a blanket, current photo of your
animal and toys. Placing a towel over the carrier
will help reduce your animal's stress.
•
It is always a good idea to enroll in a pet first
aid class. The Wisconsin Humane Society will host
a Pet First Aid class on September 24 at 1 p.m.,
4500 W. Wisconsin Avenue . There is a $40 fee. Call
(414) 431-6156 for more information.
• The
Wisconsin Humane Society also recommends that
dog guardians train their pooch basic cues, including
coming when called. This way, during a disaster
and time of stress your dog will come to you when
called.
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NOTE: To
arrange an interview with a Wisconsin Humane Society
representative or get footage of animals, contact
Michelle Pintar at
(414) 431-6104.
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