During Storms, Make a Plan for Pets

As Hurricane Earl churns in the Atlantic Ocean, making its way up the coastal region, residents are advised to be prepared even if the Category 4 storm never makes landfall or has a major effect on Nassau County by week's end.

With August and September considered the two most active months during hurricane season, now is a good time to formulate a family disaster plan checklist and disaster preparedness kit. Don't forget about your furry friends either.

Many consider their pets family members so while in the planning stages, might as well create a "pet go kit" too. Some items to include, as suggested by County Executive Ed Mangano, are:

• Your pets' names, address and phone number
• Your name, address, phone and cell number
• Emergency contact - friend or family
• Your veterinarian's name and contact info
• Important Documents
• Medical records : Medications : Specific Care instructions : Behavioral problems First aid kit / medications
• Current photos
• Sturdy leash, collar or harness, muzzles
• Paper towels for clean-up
• Food and bottled water (three-day supply)
• Manual can opener and bowls
• Water purification tablets
• Toys and other comfort items
• Treats, brushes, combs
• Newspapers and plastic

Beverly Poppell of the Pet Safe Coalition urged people to take care of their pets in the event of an evacuation. There are animal shelters nearby, but Poppell said, "there's no way that any shelter is going to be able to take care of your pets the way you are."

Dr. Ron Rosen with the South Bellmore Veterinary Group added that the biggest problem occurs when people abandon their pets if they have to evacuate their home.

"Since we know a hurricane is coming, you have to make plans if there is a possibilty that you have to evacuate," he added.

Rosen suggested taking pets with you somewhere or boarding them.