Keeping Your Pets Safe During Flooding | SERVPRO® of Kingston/New Paltz

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your pets safe if you're dealing with flooding conditions at your home!

There’s no denying the fact that our beloved pets become part of the family. If you’re like most pet owners, you have an undeniable bond with the furry or feathered friend in your life. Millions of American families feel the same deep affection for the family pet. So naturally, as a conscientious pet parent, you want to be sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your pet safe and secure during difficult times.

Your pets should always be part of your emergency plan, and your emergency kit needs to include items like leashes, collars, extra pet food and any medications your pets take. It’s also a good idea to learn more about their unique safety needs during emergency situations.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how flooding can impact your pet and the steps you can take to keep your pet safe during a flooding emergency.

Pet Safety Pointers

The FDA and the AKC (though the American Kennel Club is specific to pups, their advice is applicable to any pet you have) offer these tips to help you handle your pet during an emergency and ensure they come out safely on the other side

-Keep your pets with you. Don’t leave your pets outside during a flood, and don’t leave your home without them. The best way to protect your pets is to do a little pre-planning and find places where you’ll all be welcome.

-Have your pet’s important records accessible. Treat your pet’s vaccination and health records like you do other important documents and keep copies accessible in your emergency kit. It’s also a good idea to take a selfie with your pet, so you can prove ownership if you get separated.

-Make your contact information accessible. Some pets have microchips that can help rescue workers reunite them with their owners. Also, consider a collar or tag with your pet’s name, your name and your phone number on it. This will ensure you can be easily contacted.

-Don’t let your pet walk through flood water. It’s not a good idea for you or your dog to walk through moving water. Even a little water (about six inches), if it’s moving quickly enough, can knock you and your pet over. Flood waters can also contain pollutants and hazardous debris that your part can be harmed by. 

If your home needs restoration services due to storms, fire, flooding, sewage or any type of damage, trust the local experts at SERVPRO of Kingston/New Paltz. We’re available 24/7 for any emergencies and will always help make it "Like it never even happened."