Cross-posted with permission.
I received this in my inbox today from Bird Hobbyist-Bird Breeder.
Subject: PETS AND DISASTER: BE PREPARED --Please Distribute--

www.redcross.org
Animal Safety

PETS AND DISASTER: BE PREPARED

The following information has been prepared by the Humane
Society of the United States in cooperation with the
American Red Cross

Our pets enrich our lives in more ways than we can count.
In turn, they depend on us for their safety and
well-being. Here's how you can be prepared to protect your
pets when disaster strikes.

Be Prepared with a Disaster Plan

The best way to protect your family from the effects of a
disaster is to have a disaster plan. If you are a pet
owner, that plan must include your pets. Being prepared
can save their lives.

Different disasters require different responses. But
whether the disaster is a hurricane or a hazardous spill,
you may have to evacuate your home.

In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most
important thing you can do to protect your pets is to
evacuate them, too. Leaving pets behind, even if you try
to create a safe place for them, is likely to result in
their being injured, lost, or worse. So prepare now for
the day when you and your pets may have to leave your
home.

1. Have a Safe Place To Take Your Pets

Red Cross disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of
states' health and safety regulations and other
considerations. Service animals who assist people with
disabilities are the only animals allowed in Red Cross
shelters. It may be difficult, if not impossible, to find
shelter for your animals in the midst of a disaster, so
plan ahead. Do not wait until disaster strikes to do your
research.

· Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to
check policies on accepting pets and restrictions on
number, size, and species. Ask if "no pet" policies could
be waived in an emergency. Keep a list of "pet friendly"
places, including phone numbers, with other disaster
information and supplies. If you have notice of an
impending disaster, call ahead for reservations.

· Ask friends, relatives, or others outside the affected
area whether they could shelter your animals. If you have
more than one pet, they may be more comfortable if kept
together, but be prepared to house them separately.

· Prepare a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians
who could shelter animals in an emergency; include 24-hour
phone numbers.

· Ask local animal shelters if they provide emergency
shelter or foster care for pets in a disaster. Animal
shelters may be overburdened caring for the animals they
already have as well as those displaced by a disaster, so
this should be your last resort.

2. Assemble a Portable Pet Disaster Supplies Kit

Whether you are away from home for a day or a week, you'll
need essential supplies. Keep items in an accessible place
and store them in sturdy containers that can be carried
easily
(duffle bags, covered trash containers, etc.). Your pet
disaster supplies kit should include:

· Medications and medical records (stored in a waterproof
container) and a first aid kit.

· Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers to transport
pets safely and ensure that your animals can't escape.

· Current photos of your pets in case they get lost.

· Food, potable water, bowls, cat litter/pan, and can
opener.

· Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions,
behavior problems, and the name and number of your
veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your
pets.

· Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable.

3. Know What To Do As a Disaster Approaches

· Often, warnings are issued hours, even days, in advance.
At the first hint of disaster, act to protect your pet.

· Call ahead to confirm emergency shelter arrangements for
you and your pets.

· Check to be sure your pet disaster supplies are ready to
take at a moment's notice.

· Bring all pets into the house so that you won't have to
search for them if you have to leave in a hurry.

· Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars and
securely fastened, up-to-date identification. Attach the
phone number and address of your temporary shelter, if you
know it, or of a friend or relative outside the disaster
area. You can buy temporary tags or put adhesive tape on
the back of your pet's ID tag, adding information with an
indelible pen.

You may not be home when the evacuation order comes. Find
out if a trusted neighbor would be willing to take your
pets and meet you at a prearranged location. This person
should be comfortable with your pets, know where your
animals are likely to be, know where your pet disaster
supplies kit is kept, and have a key to your home. If you
use a petsitting service, they may be available to help,
but discuss the possibility well in advance.

Planning and preparation will enable you to evacuate with
your pets quickly and safely. But bear in mind that
animals react differently under stress. Outside your home
and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. Transport cats
in carriers. Don't leave animals unattended anywhere they
can run off. The most trustworthy pets may panic, hide,
try to escape, or even bite or scratch. And, when you
return home, give your pets time to settle back into their
routines. Consult your veterinarian if any behavior
problems persist.

Caring for Birds in an Emergency

Birds should be transported in a secure travel cage or
carrier. In cold weather, wrap a blanket over the carrier
and warm up the car before placing birds inside. During
warm weather, carry a plant mister to mist the birds'
feathers periodically. Do not put water inside the carrier
during transport. Provide a few slices of fresh fruits and
vegetables with high water content. Have a photo for
identification and leg bands. If the carrier does not have
a perch, line it with paper towels and change them
frequently. Try to keep the carrier in a quiet area. Do
not let the birds out of the cage or carrier.

About Other Pets

Reptiles

Snakes can be transported in a pillowcase but they must be
transferred to more secure housing when they reach the
evacuation site. If your snakes require frequent feedings,
carry food with you. Take a water bowl large enough for
soaking as well as a heating pad. When transporting house
lizards, follow the same directions as for birds.

Pocket Pets

Small mammals (hamsters, gerbils, etc.) should be
transported in secure carriers suitable for maintaining
the animals while sheltered. Take bedding materials, food
bowls, and water bottles.

A Final Word

If you must evacuate, do not leave your animals behind.
Evacuate them to a prearranged safe location if they
cannot stay with your during the evacuation period.
(remember, pets are not allowed in Red Cross shelters.) If
there is a possibility that disaster may strike while you
are out of the house, there are precautions you can take
to increase your pets' chances of survival, but they are
not a substitute for evacuating with your pets. For more
information, contact The Humane Society of the United
States, Disaster Services, 2100 L Street NW, Washington,
DC 20037.

In a statement of understanding, The American Red Cross
recognizes The Humane Society of the United States as the
nation's largest animal protection organization
responsible for the safety and well-being of animals,
including disaster relief. The American Red Cross is
committed to transforming the caring and concern of the
American people into immediate action.

http://www.redcross.org/services/dis...malsafety.html