Press Releases

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:  Angela Speed

 (414) 431-6104  aspeed@wihumane.org

Don’t Forget the Four-legged in Disaster Planning

This week’s tornados were a reminder that Wisconsin’s weather can be sudden, unpredictable and dangerous. No one wants to think about disasters, but everyone should be prepared for them. By including your animal companions in your emergency plans, you will significantly increase the chance that your whole family will escape unharmed.

Creating a Plan for Your Companion Animals
Considering what will happen in the event of an emergency is essential in disaster planning. Whenever possible, it is essential that you take your companions with you in the event of an evacuation. As you develop your own emergency evacuation plans, answer these questions:

• Are my animals up to date on all vaccinations?
• Is my animal’s microchip registered with current information on the manufacturer’s database?
• Are my carriers equipped and ready to go?
• Where will I go if I have to evacuate? Which hotels or motels in the area accept animals?
• If I am away during an emergency, who will gather my animals and their emergency supplies?
• How will the authorities know to help my companion animals if no one is at home? Do I have a “Pet Inside” cling on my front door so they know the number of animals to rescue?

Companion Animal Emergency Checklist
Each of your animals should have an emergency kit, which are available at WHS’ Animal Antics retail store. Our kits include these items, which are also sold individually:

• Carrier or crate with identification tags that is large enough for the animal to comfortably stand and sit.
• Good-fitting collar with identification tags and a leash for each animal.
• At least three days of food and water for each animal. Make sure the food is in an air-tight, waterproof container. Don’t forget the can opener for canned food.
• Food and water bowls
• Toys and a bed to fit inside the carrier or crate to help reduce stress.
• Paper towels, plastic bags and spray disinfectant for animal waste clean up.
• First-aid kit for companion animals, available in Animal Antics.
• The following Information Kit should be placed in a waterproof, zip-lock bag:
  
  • Copies of medical and vaccination records
  • Three days of any current medications or prescriptions for these medications
  • A recent photograph of you and your animals for identification purposes
  • Registration and adoption information

Read more emergency preparedness info at http://www.wihumane.org/services/emergencypreparedness.aspx.

Interview/Photo Opportunity: To schedule an interview with a WHS representative, please contact Angela Speed at (414) 431-6104.

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