No pet left behind during the storm Published July 28, 2008 By Harry Lundy 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- When planning for a natural disaster, double check the preparation list. One of those items on the checklist is the family pet. Are they covered? In 2005 there were many images of abandoned pets in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Incorporating furry friends into a disaster plan will avoid that scenario. According to Justin Scally, the director of animal control for Wayne County, the first step is laying down groundwork. "It is imperative that pet owners prepare ahead of a disaster by creating a pet disaster kit just as they would for their families," Mr. Scally said. The web site of the Wayne County Animal Response Team states a kit should contain items like food and water, medicine, vaccination records, leash and collar (with ID tag), bowls, bedding, waste cleanup items, photo with the owner and a microchip identification number. A microchip is an inexpensive way to recover an animal that has been separated from its family. Cecile Hawkins, an animal health technician at the base veterinary treatment facility, recommends base housing residents do this when they register their pets on base. "The cost of microchipping a pet is just $20 and we will take care of the registration, so it's very convenient," she said. In Wayne County, microchipping can cost between $40 and $50. After the initial cost, the service is free for the life of the pet. If evacuation orders are given, make sure you go to a place that accepts pets. Most shelters will not allow pets for health and safety reasons. There are currently no designated shelters for pets, however, Eileen Coite from CART is working on making the Wayne County fairgrounds a regional shelter location for horse owners. Additionally, there is room on the grounds for small animals in crates. Lori Cowan, the kennel manager at Eastwaye Veterinary Clinic, recommends contacting local veterinarians to see if they have space available. Some practices will allow people to call ahead to make space. The next place to shelter a pet would be a pet-friendly hotel. Create a list of hotels that allow pets. Be sure to check for restrictions on the size and number of pets allowed. The last resort is leaving a pet behind. If this is unavoidable, keep the pet in a room away from windows, like a bathroom. Leave water in the tub and use only dry food. Allow access to countertops in case of flooding. After the storm, keep pets on leashes for a few days. Landmarks and smells may be gone and cause disorientation. Pets can get lost easily in that situation. If behavioral problems arise, contact a veterinarian to find out what services, such as medicine or training, are provided. With proper planning, pets can be just as prepared for a natural disaster as their owner. The objective for them, as it is with people, is to make the event as smooth as possible.