Florida is under a State of Emergency and as it is predicted Tropical Storm Ian will make land fall next week as Hurricane Ian and we are in it's path.
Coastal Animal Clinic cares about your pets safety and urge you to plan ahead and not wait to the last minute to gather supplies for your home and pet hurricane kit. Below is a checklist you can use for your pet(s).
If you need copies of your vaccines or rabies certificates, give us a call we can email them to you. Or email us largo@coastalvets.com for our Largo Clinic or tampa@coastalvets.com for our Tampa Clinic. Call us for medication refills, especially if your pet is on any asthma, heart or diabetes medication.
We will also update you with any clinic closures as we monitor Tropical Storm Ian's predicted landfall, you can keep up to date by checking your email, following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
COASTAL ANIMAL CLINIC 727-518-7387 LARGO * 813-644-3961 TAMPA HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS RECOMMENDATIONS AND CHECKLIST
KEEP YOUR PET IN DISASTER-READY CONDITION USE THIS CHECKLIST TO ENSURE YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR PET(S)
□ Ensure all your pets’ collars and tags have up-to-date contact information.
□ Microchipping a pet is one of the best ways to find them again, should they become lost.
□ Have proper equipment for pets to ride in the car with you (this is especially important for cats or exotics, who may not leave your house often).
□ Pet carriers are needed at many shelters and can serve as a safe space for a nervous pet. Therefore, they are highly recommended when transporting your pet. The pet carrier should be the correct size (the pet should be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably). Be sure to label the carrier with your pet’s name, breed, sex, date of birth, your current address and contact numbers, and any critical medical information.
□ Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag, and a leash.
□ Carry at least one slip leash. A simple slip-type webbing or nylon leash will ensure you have a way to restrain a dog (or even a cat) in the event they slip out of their collar or harness.
YOUR PET’S DISASTER KIT IS AS IMPORTANT AS YOUR FAMILY’S – GATHER UP THESE ITEMS
□ At least three days to two weeks’ worth of food and water specifically for your pet and stored in sealed containers.
□ If your pet’s regular diet includes canned food, remember to have a manual can opener with you.
□ Don’t forget bowls to serve your pet’s meals
□ At least two weeks’ worth of any medication they require in a sealed, airtight container.
□ Important documents. Include registration information, adoption papers, and vaccination documents. In addition, photocopied records of your rabies certificate, vaccinations, and medical summaries are a must and should be stored in a waterproof container.
□ A first aid kit, particularly for your pet, includes cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol, and saline solution. A pet first aid reference book is a good idea too.
□ Hygiene and grooming supplies. You need any sanitation items and products to clean up after your pet. Consider pet litter and litter boxes, if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach.
□ A picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in the event you become separated. Add species, breed, age, sex, color, and distinguishing characteristics. □ Familiar items, such as treats, toys, and bedding, can help reduce stress for your pet. Toys will also help keep your pet occupied.
THINKING OF A HOTEL OR AIR BNB - ASK, DON’T ASSUME Be sure to secure accommodations for your pet before the storm. Unfortunately, whenever a hurricane approaches, false information circulates on social media. For example, a common myth is that there are laws requiring all hotels to allow pets in their rooms during an evacuation notice. This false statement can put you in a tough spot if all other pet[1]friendly hotels in your area are already booked. Instead, ask ahead of time if the location you plan to evacuate to is comfortable with every pet you will be bringing when you arrive there. There are also plenty of websites where you can verify if a hotel or shelter will be pet–friendly.
For more information, visit CDC.gov and search “Pet Safety in Emergencies