Released March 27, 2009
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - With temperature fluctuations from 80 degrees Fahrenheit on a Monday to 44 degrees Fahrenheit on a Wednesday, it's no wonder severe weather, including tornadoes, hail and lightning strikes, is a constant possibility in Arkansas.
Most Arkansans have the safety drill down for their family, but what do you do with the dogs, cats and other pets when the tornado siren sounds?
"For a lot of us, our pets are members of our families, and when severe weather is happening, we don't really know what to do with them other than to make sure they're in the house with us," says Dr. Jeremy Powell, associate professor and extension veterinarian with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. "However, there are some things you can do before a tornado or other severe weather happens to ensure your pets stay as safe as possible."
Preparation before disaster
First, gather and keep pet supplies in a safe interior room of your home or basement. This includes fresh food and water in amounts to see you through the storm as well as a week or so afterward. "If you're area is hit by a tornado, it may be a while before you can get to a store, or it may be the store has been damaged and not receiving shipments," Powell says. "Make sure you have enough to get your pet through until you can get them more."
Prepare the safe room prior to the storm by removing any dangerous or toxic items. These can include tools, wall-mounted shelves, cleaning supplies and other home maintenance products.
Another item to have in place before severe weather strikes is a litter box for cats or puppy pads for dogs. Excited or frightened pets are more apt to have accidents, and having these items on hand will help keep them focused. You also can keep crates in these areas so pets will have a secure hiding place. For birds, make sure cages are portable and will fit in the safe area. Buckets work well to cover turtles and small fish aquariums. "This will help your peace of mind as well just by knowing your pets are safe and in one place," Powell says.
When tornado watch is issued
Place pets in their crates when a tornado watch is issued. When animals sense danger, they will look for a place to hide, and where they choose may not be easily located. This will eliminate them from running and you from looking for them.
Pets should always have adequate identification, which should be sturdy, readable and secure. If you and your pet get separated after the storm, this is the best and quickest way to have them returned to you. After the storm has passed, leash all pets if you go outside. Power lines could be down, and other dangerous items like debris will be everywhere.
"Pets will be a great source of comfort after the storm," Powell says. "Keeping them safe will help you stay focused during the scariest times."
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/march2009/0327severe_weather_pets.htm
Contact: Lamar James, (501) 671-2187, ljames@uaex.edu
