TRACKING FLORENCE: How to keep your pets safe during a storm

(WIS) - When a major storm like Hurricane Florence hits, it's important to keep all members of your family safe- including pets.

Shelters are now in place in SC and other areas in Florence's path. However, not all shelters accept pets. Coordinators ask that you call ahead to see if your nearest shelter accepts pets and to make accommodations.

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the federal government implemented the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Act (PETS Act), which required all states to take household pets and service animals into consideration in their disaster planning.

It's encouraged that people make certain that they have evacuation plans of their own that include their pets.

• Dubose Middle School- 1005 Dubose School Road, Summerville, SC 29483
• Blenheim Elementary/Middle School- 143 Highland Street, Blenheim, SC 29516
• Cane Bay High School- 1624 State Road, Summerville, SC 29483

Make a plan

First thing's first, you'll want to make a storm plan. Your pet's plan isn't really too much different from yours, Pet MD says.

Decide on a course of action and make sure you have enough supplies for you and your pet.

Assemble an emergency kit

Be sure to include a light source like candles or flashlights. You'll also want enough water for three days for you and your pet, non-perishable food, a can opener, a solid carrier, litter, litter box, puppy pads, plastic bags, medicine and medical records for both you and your pet in waterproof containers, extra leash, and a picture of your pet on you in case the worst happens and you get separated.

Accommodations 

If you're staying put, keep your pet in its carrier or on a leash in case you need to evacuate. This will also prevent them from running away if they get scared.

MORE: TRACKING FLORENCE

• Midlands closings, cancellations, and delays
• TRACKING FLORENCE: List of important sources, phone numbers in case of emergencies
• WOW! Astronaut takes a photo showing the power of Hurricane Florence from space
• Harvest Hope in dire need of donations to keep food bank shelves stocked
• SC gubernatorial candidate called for Army National Guard duty as Hurricane Florence approaches
• SCE&G warns of the potential for prolonged power outages due to Hurricane Florence
• U-haul offers free self-storage, other resources ahead of Hurricane Florence

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