For Immediate Release:
May 25, 2018
Contact:
Brooke Rossi 202-483-7382
Miami – There are dangers associated with Tropical Storm Alberto, which may affect the Miami area, and animals are at risk who can be injured or killed, too.
Animals should never be left tied up or trapped inside crates, pens, or hutches, as they will be unable to flee from flying debris, collapsing structures, and rising floodwaters.
Should conditions worsen and evacuations be ordered, animals must never be left behind. Anyone who evacuates and intentionally abandons animals to drown or starve may be prosecuted. During Hurricane Irma, more than 50 cats and dogs were rescued by animal control officers in Palm Beach County, Florida, and authorities announced that they would pursue felony cruelty-to-animals charges against anyone found to have left animals behind to die.
PETA has released a disaster-preparedness public service announcement. Make plans to ensure the safety of your animal companions in advance of trouble, to avoid being caught unprepared. For more information, please visit PETA.org.
