Release Date: 2007-06-19
Original Link: http://presszoom.com/story_134367.html
Source: HSUS.ORG
FORT WORTH, Texas – After days of rain, swollen rivers in Northern Texas exceeded their capacity and caused many flash floods. Neighborhoods are experiencing high waters that could wash away cars, flood homes and businesses and could initiate a call for localized evacuations. The rains are not forecasted to stop soon. The Humane Society of the United States urges pet owners in the region to gather supplies and be prepared to take their pets with them.
(PressZoom.com) - FORT WORTH, Texas – After days of rain, swollen rivers in Northern Texas exceeded their capacity and caused many flash floods. Neighborhoods are experiencing high waters that could wash away cars, flood homes and businesses and could initiate a call for localized evacuations. The rains are not forecasted to stop soon. The Humane Society of the United States urges pet owners in the region to gather supplies and be prepared to take their pets with them.
"Be prepared to take pets with you when evacuation orders are issued," advised Lou Guyton, regional director for The HSUS' Southwest Regional Office in Texas. "If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for them." The HSUS advises pet owners to evacuate early to avoid the stress of gridlock on the evacuation routes.
All pet owners should have an emergency supply kit for their animals, which should include:
Three-or-more-day supply of food in airtight, water proof container, and drinking water.
Bowls for food and water.
Current photos and physical description of your pets, including details on markings.
Medications, vaccination records and first aid pet supplies.
Comfort items such as a toy and blanket.
Small garbage bags.
For dogs include leash, harness and a sturdy carrier large enough to use as a sleeping area.
For cats include litter and litter box and a sturdy carrier large enough for transport and for your cat to use as a temporary "apartment" for several days.
Guyton advises:
Placing the pet emergency supply kit by the door or directly in your car so it is ready to go if you need to evacuate quickly.
Making sure your pet has visible identification on right now, before you have to leave home.
Talking with a trusted neighbor who is home during the workday and can evacuate your pets if you are away.
When officials call for an evacuation, pet owners should be aware that many evacuation shelters do not accept pets, and they must plan their destination in advance. Hotels and motels may be willing to lift "no pet" restrictions in an emergency. Friends and family members living outside the area may be able to provide shelter too. Please check with your local animal shelter or emergency management office to determine the location of pet friendly shelters in your area.
More than 358 million pets reside in 63 percent of American households and 61 percent of Texas households have a pet. A Zogby International poll found that 61 percent of pet owners will not evacuate if they cannot bring their pets with them.
For more tips on preparedness plans for your pets including horses and farm animals, visit humanesociety.org/prepare.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization – backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at humanesociety.org.
The Southwest Regional Office of The Humane Society of the United States, located in Fort Worth, Texas, works on behalf of the animals and people in seven states: Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
Kathy Covey, (301) 258-3126