#Middlebury #Pets
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I just moved to a new part of the country, where natural disasters like floods are more frequent than I’m used to. When checking out available emergency services, I found out that there is no emergency shelter nearby that allows pets. What can I do? – Charlie B., via email
DEAR CHARLIE: Knowing ahead of time what emergency services are available in a disaster is an excellent move. You won’t have as many unpleasant surprises during the high stress of a natural disaster. But it is a bummer that the local disaster shelter doesn’t accept pets.
First, locate the nearest disaster shelter that does allow you to shelter with your pet. Develop a contingency plan for evacuating to this shelter, if possible. Another option is to identify pet-friendly hotels within an hour or two of your home; if you need to leave for more than a day, these may be an option.
Next, find out if there are designated shelters just for pets during or after a natural disaster. You wouldn’t be able to stay with your pets, but they would be safe.
Third, get engaged with the local government and animal shelter. Talk to your new veterinarian, too. Find out if there’s a local emergency management office and call them. Are any plans in place for taking care of pets in a disaster? If not, ask for steps to be taken to include this contingency.
During California’s wildfires in 2018, there were very few facilities just for animals, and no shelters allowed them. The need was so great that empty strip malls were repurposed to care for pets and abandoned animals. Urge local government to create a plan now, before a disaster, so all pets in the area will have a safe place to stay.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.
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