As many of us know, here in southeast Texas, August is the time we focus on the Gulf. Many of us have experienced hurricanes, floods, tornados, and industrial disasters, and we are reminded by our county and city officials to have a plan in these cases.
Materials are available online and packets are located at the Orange County Emergency Management at 11475 FM 1442, Orange, TX 77630 and have been distributed throughout the year, but remember, you may need to modify your plans based on your family’s needs. Registering for the STAN helps us be updated on emergencies and major events happening in our area.
If you need more guidance, each of our communities has personnel who train year-round to manage emergencies and assist residents. Contact your local emergency management office for more information.
So, what now? Hopefully, you have a plan to keep your family safe. Pets may be considered by us to be family; however, domesticated animals require other considerations when preparing for emergencies.
Some accommodations you seek may not accept or have facilities for your pets. If by chance you need to go to a temporary shelter: identification, leashes, shot records, and if possible, portable kennels are key. Places such as this have limited space and pet will need to be housed in a separate facility from you. If your pet has been separated from you due to unforeseen events, visible identification with your contact information, and a microchip may help in a quicker reunion with your pet after an emergency.
Livestock owners who can transport their livestock prior to an emergency should be prepared and know the places and contact numbers of the facilities they choose to go to. Consider the amount of food and water needed to travel with your animal. As with pets, you may be separated from your animal. Visible markings, as well as microchips will aid in a quicker reunion with your animal.
Make sure your animals are in good health and updated on their vaccinations prior to transport. Best practice is to check with your vet about what vaccines are needed to be boarded, or sheltered in a facility with other pets. Keep their records with you.
Here a list of websites that will help you make a plan that fits your needs:
- Texas Animal Health Commission
- AgriLifeLearn.com
- Orange County Disaster Rebuild
- Texas Department of Emergency Management
- Ready.gov Plan Ahead for Disasters
Thanks to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Orange County for the helpful tips!
