PETA Offers Urgent Information for Safeguarding Animals During a Natural Disaster

Group Offers Tips for National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day

For Immediate Release:   
May 7, 2010

Contact:
Kristin Richards  757-622-7382

Norfolk, Va. -- National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day is May 8, and PETA is offering important advice for ensuring the safety of animal companions during a natural disaster. Please consider the following information, which could help save the lives of cats, dogs, birds, and other animal companions who need to be included in disaster preparation plans (as Hurricane Katrina graphically illustrated):

* Never leave your animals behind to fend for themselves.
* Never tie animals up or leave them confined in any way, as they will be trapped and unable to flee from rising floodwaters or other dangers.
* Know your destination ahead of time. Although human shelters often refuse animals, the federal Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act mandates that state and local emergency plans accommodate households with animal companions. Also, motels will probably accept dogs, cats, and other small animals in an emergency. Do not plan to leave animals unsupervised in a car; they can suffer from heatstroke once the temperature rises above 70 degrees, even if water is provided and the windows are slightly open.
* Place small animals in secure carriers, and keep dogs leashed. Frightening sounds and unfamiliar surroundings might make them bolt. Take water and food bowls, your animals' favorite toys or blankets, a towel, and enough food for at least a week.
* Have your animals microchipped, and put secure, legible ID tags on them. 
* Watch for other animals in need, including strays and animals who are left behind by neighbors. If you see an animal in distress and are unable to help, note the animal's condition and location and call authorities for help as soon as possible.

A copy of PETA's disaster-preparedness public service announcement is available upon request. For more information, please visit PETA's Web site HelpingAnimals.com, where you can also find a list of local animal shelters as well as accommodations in your area that allow animals.