Florida AAA Tips Prepare Pets for Emergency Travel During Hurricane Season
ORLANDO, Fla.--June 25, 2002--When hurricane season arrives, Americans all along the country's coasts begin thinking about what they would do in the event of an evacuation. But what about the family pet?"Most emergency shelters do not accept pets," said Bill Wood, director, AAA Publishing. "Pet owners can avert a potential tragedy by planning in advance where their pet will go in case of an evacuation."
Before weather forecasters announce the bad news, contact the emergency shelter nearest you and find out if they will accept pets. If the answer is no, then AAA has these tips for emergency planning for your pets. More information is available in "Traveling With Your Pet, The AAA PetBook(R)."
| -- | Contact a local kennel or veterinarian's office to find out if they accept pets in evacuation situations. Remember, the vet's office will probably evacuate as well so staffing may be limited or non-existent. |
| -- | Do not leave your pets at home alone no matter how well the windows are boarded. If you are not planning to stay with family or friends, then call ahead for a reservation at a pet-friendly lodging. |
| -- | Any time a pet is riding in a vehicle they should be secured in a crate or by a special seat belt designed for animals. Unsecured animals can be in danger in the event of an accident. Never let pets stick their heads out of the window while the vehicle is moving since they can be seriously injured by flying debris. |
| -- | Have an up-to-date health certificate for each pet and take it with you when you leave. A rabies vaccination tag may not be sufficient proof of health. |
| -- | Pack for your pet as carefully as you would for yourself. In addition to a leash and collar with tags, make sure to bring food bowls, food and snacks, toys, medications, litter supplies, muzzle, grooming supplies and a recent photo with a written description. |
| -- | Also bring a first aid kit including gauze, bandages, adhesive tape, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, scissors and tweezers. |
| -- | Make sure your pet's identification tag includes the pet's name, your address and phone number, and an emergency contact number such as the animal's veterinarian. You may also include a tag that specifies medication needs. |
More information about all modes of travel with pets can be found in "Traveling With Your Pet, The AAA PetBook(R)," which is available at AAA club travel stores, online at http://www.aaa.com, and retail bookstores. The book is $15.95 US/$24.50 CDN.
As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides 45 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.
