Emergencies may come in any form. We here at St. Charles Veterinary Hospital want to help you get prepared for this as hurricane season approaches.

Step #1: GET A RESCUE STICKER

This will let people know you have a pet in the home. You may ask for one here at the hospital as we have a limited number of them at no charge for you and your pet.  That includes those birds.

Step #2: ARRANGE A Regulated HAVEN

Do not leave your pets behind if you can help it. Contact some of the pet-friendly sites such as Doginmysuitcase.com, Pet-friendly-hotels.net, and Petswelcome.com.  Many Red Cross Disaster shelters now accept pets. These are the first to fill up, so get there quickly. If you cannot find a place for your small dog or cat, and exotic pets, please call us at 863-438-6600 and arrange for a place here at the hospital or a place we will set up for you. Dr. Polly and a small staff stay with these guys through storms to assure they are cared for.

Step #3: EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

3-7 days of food for your pets and also enough water for that amount of time.
Medications and written instructions on medical conditions and behavioral issues (afraid of loud noises and storms)

  • Waterproof container
  • Disposable litter tray
  • Blankets and beds
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Liquid dish soap
  • Feeding dishes
  • A collar or harness; Make sure your pet can be identified (microchip or tattoo) as collars and tags can be lost or taken off.
  • Copies of pets records and medications in a waterproof bag.
BIRDS, REPTILES and POCKET PETS

 

  • Travel cage or carrier
  • Food enough for 7 days as well as fresh bottled water
  • A recent photo
  • Microchip or band ID
  • Towels
  • Pillow case
  • Heating pad or disc
  • Dishes for feeding and soaking
  • Bedding materials
  • Hide box or tube

Please remember pets are part of your family, so never put your animal in a situation that would expose them to danger, whether from heat, poisons, lightning, storms, or floods. ~ Dr. Polly