Animal Services is urging pet owners to include furry companions in their Hurricane Matthew plans and to buy a two-week supply of pet food before the storm hits.”We often find that residents simply do not think that a storm will impact them, and therefore do not have a disaster plan, or do not include their pets in those plans. But the best way a family can protect themselves, along with their four-legged friends, is to be prepared, ” said Dil Luther, Orange County Animal Services Division Manager.In the next 24 hours, before Matthew is expected to make landfall, animal services recommends that owners ensure their pet vaccinations are current, consider microchipping pets in the event they get separated and find a pet-friendly place to stay in case of evacuation.Animal services also advises owners to compile a pet disaster kit. It should include a pet carrier, a cotton sheet for covering the carrier to keep pets calm and pet health records in a waterproof container.Some shelters, including those run by the Red Cross, do not allow animals, so check the listings and seek out pet-friendly motels, hotels or other lodging. Take these steps to protect your furry friends during and after a storm.April Godsey, assistant manager at Preppy Pet Boarding and Daycare in south Orlando, said owners should keep all vaccination records on hand in case hotels require them for checking in. Owners may also want to contact veterinarians to get prescriptions for anxiety medications for their pets to soothe them through the intense rainfall.”A lot of our customers actually use thunder coats, this device that holds the dogs tight and there’s a lavender smell that sends off to help keep [dogs] at ease,” she said.Check your local doggy daycare or boarding provider to see if they remain open during severe weather. Some may require you to list an emergency contact who can pick up your pet if you are not in the area. Godsey said two dozens animals from coastal areas have already been booked for her facility.echerney@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5735
Source: Consider pets before Hurricane Matthew hits – Orlando Sentinel
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