People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has put out an advisory warning against deadly mistakes made during Hurricane Katrina. The list follows:
– 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 rising floodwaters.
– Know your destination ahead of time. Although human shelters often refuse animals, motels (or hotels or inns) in the area will sometimes 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°̊F, even if water is provided and the windows are cracked.
– Place small animals in secure carriers and keep dogs leashed: Frightening sounds and unfamiliar surroundings may make them bolt and get strangled. Take water and food bowls, your animal's favorite toy or blanket, a towel, and enough food for at least a week.
– Have your animals microchipped, and put secure, legible I.D. tags on them.
– Watch for other animals in need, including strays and animals 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.
