June 20, 2006

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HOUSTON— As Gulf Coast residents brace for what weather experts are forecasting as another busy hurricane season, a Texas Cooperative Extension expert said every family should have an evacuation plan that includes the family pet.

"Typically for a family, the first thing on their mind would be their kids and their family," said Wayne Thompson, Extension agent for agriculture in Harris County. "But the pet is part of the family as well, so preparation for that pet is critical."

Thompson said three areas of preparation are essential: identification, supplies and means of transportation.

"Its hard to say exactly what the situation will be like during an evacuation for a disaster, so the key is to have all the pet's paperwork prepared," he said.

Thompson offered these suggestions for pet identification:

- Be sure the pet has an identification tag.

- Label all carriers, bags and pet supplies with permanent marker or other method besides a sticker label, which can be removed or fall off.

- Prepare an identification bag that includes the pet's shot records, current photo and an index card with the owner's name, address, and phone numbers. This card should also include the contact information of a neighbor or relative who knows the pet and its owner.

When gathering pet supplies, Thompson said to include water and food for several days; any medications, clearly labeled with their name and instructions, and bowls, cleanup supplies, toys or other comfort items.

Thompson represents Extension on the Harris County Disaster Animal Task Force, which is developing emergency plans specifically for evacuating animals in the Greater Houston area during a hurricane or other emergency, such as a toxic chemical spill or terrorist attack.

In the wake of two major evacuations on the Gulf Coast last summer, many communities are including pet evacuation plans for residents who do not have their own transportation, he said. And whether evacuating on your own or relying on provided transportation, the family pet should be ready to travel.

"On your way out the door, get that animal ready," he said. "Large dogs should be muzzled; small pets, cats and little dogs can be placed in a little carrier."

Thompson recommended that pet owners let their animal practice going in and coming out of the carrier several times before an actual emergency.

"The time to get ready for emergency is well in advance of an official warning," he said. "If it's going to happen tomorrow, that means we should be ready today."