Suffolk County SPCA Offers Tips to Keep Pets Safe During Hurricane Season

June 1st marks the official beginning of Hurricane season, which means residents should make a plan to prepare in case of emergency.

For pet owners, this also means creating a plan to help keep their pets safe too.

The Suffolk County SPCA have provided Pet-Friendly Shelters during disasters for those unfortunate residents who have had to evacuate their homes and leave all of their possessions behind over the past four years.

The organization has worked with Suffolk County CERT Teams to open four Pet-Friendly Shelters during Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and two shelters during Tropical Storm Irene in 2011.

Hopefully, it won’t be needed again, however the Suffolk County SPCA stands ready to provide this service to Suffolk County residents should the need arise again in the future.

Here are some other tips from the Suffolk County SPCA to help keep pets safe during the season:

• Prepare for the unexpected. Be ready to evacuate. Have essential supplies ready to “grab and go.” Know where to find temporary housing for you and your pet.
• Make sure that your pet can be identified. Your pet should always wear his or her ID collar and rabies tag.
• In the event that you must evacuate, take care of your pet. Never leave your pet behind. He/she may become lost, injured-or worse.
• Have a plan in advance: Consider friends and relatives outside your local area.
• Check for Pet Friendly Shelters. Hotels and motels that allow pets. Petswelcome.com has a listing of pet-friendly options.
• Create a pet emergency supply kit.
• Pack basic supplies including food, medication, flashlight, food and water bowls, can opener, cage or carrier, extra collar, litter box, plastic trash bags.
• Bring important records including recent photo of your with our pet, contact information, microchip information.
• Remember, be informed and ready to act in the event of a disaster.