Don't forget about pets when preparing for a hurricane

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., July 3, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Tropical Storm Arthur was upgraded to a hurricane this morning, becoming the first hurricane of the season. As the storm bears down on the East Coast, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is reminding pet owners about the importance of including their animals in their disaster preparedness and evacuation plans.

Disaster plans don't have to be complicated. In fact, simple plans are often the most effective. The AVMA recommends the following:

Have a pet carrier for transportation and temporary housing. Be sure your pet's carrier is large enough for your dog or cat to stay in comfortably for a few days. If you evacuate to a shelter, your pets will have to spend most of their time in their crates. Cat owners should also plan on creating temporary litter boxes. These can be simply put together with a small cardboard box, plastic bags for liners, and litter.

Have a disaster preparedness kit: Include at least a week's worth of food and fresh water, any medications your pet is on and a current prescription, as well as any health and medical records. The kit should also include a photo of you and your pets for identification purposes; a list of local pet friendly hotels, friends and relatives that can house you, and a local veterinarian; and first aid supplies.

Have proper identification for your pets. During a disaster or evacuation, the likelihood of being separated from your pets is much higher, and proper identification is the only way to ensure you'll be reunited. Identification tags should have your name and cellphone number as well as the name of friends or relatives who lives outside of your area. Luggage identification tags make good temporary tags for your pet during a disaster. Your pet should also have a microchip with updated contact information.

Have a plan. In the event of an evacuation, know where you're going and how you'll get there with your pets.

The AVMA has a number of additional resources on hurricane preparedness and response. You can view these resources on the AVMA website at https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/disaster/Pages/Hurricane-Preparedness.aspx.

The AVMA, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. More than 85,000 member veterinarians worldwide are engaged in a wide variety of professional activities. Visit www.avma.org for more information.

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SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association