| Publication: The Frederick News-Post; |
Date: Sep 2, 2007; |
Section: Pennypincher; |
Page: B-14 |
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Prepare for disaster by gathering records for pets and
family
By DIANA CLEMENT
Special to the News-Post
EVERY SEPTEMBER the Office
of Homeland Security promotes disaster preparedness. At the anniversary of
Hurricane Katrina, we are reminded of the importance of preparing for companion
and farm animals in the event of disaster. There may be many reasons for
planning from emotional needs of humans to have companion animals with them
during times of crisis as well as the economic impact to farmers and farming
communities.
Governments are also concerned
about public health and the role of disease that may be shared between species
and public safety issues that come from people attempting to cross barricades
out of concern for suffering of non human animals.
H u r r i c a n e season is another reminder of simple actions you can take to
protect your family. Rotating a stock of quickly prepared meals that do not
require r e f r i g e r a t i o n and drinking water is something you should
consider doing routinely. Keeping batteries, a
telephone that does not require electricity as well as one that does not require
land line is also advisable. Many of us have converted to wireless for
convenience but 9-11 proved this to be a disadvantage in times of emergency.
Homeland Security suggests having copies of your
children’s Social Security numbers and vaccination records. Pet owners should
keep copies of medical records in the event that crossing state lines becomes
necessary. Shot records are also important if you decide to keep your pet in a
commercial facility. If you do board your pet, be sure to leave an emergency
contact and inquire about the disaster plans of
the kennel.
If you have multiple pets, you must
plan ahead. Hotels often accept a dog or cat with a family but may not be able
to accommodate more in one room. Family can certainly divide up into multiple
rooms but that means you will need to bring multiple crates, litter pans and
dishes and food containers. Consider using disposable litter and food containers
and bring trash bags.
If you would like a
complete list of supplies visit http://www.ready.gov/america/ab
out/_flash/movie15.html for a video about disaster planning that includes
suggestions for families with disabled members.
Request a planning kit from Homeland Security at
http://www.ready.gov/america/np m07/members.html.
Misty
Delilah
PETS AND PEOPLE
