Pets are a very signi�cant part of the family, and as such it is important to include them in all of your emergency plans.

Many animals are left behind and are harmed because they are not included in their owners’ emergency plans. Planning ahead for your pets and livestock can avoid placing them in danger.

Some animals can become agitated during disasters, so it is important to keep their welfare in mind, as well as your own.

Remember, in times of �oods and storms, the safety of your animals is your responsibility.

Be careful when handling animals during and after a storm, as they may be frightened or disorientated.

For missing animals, check with your local Council Animal Management pounds and shelters.

Be aware of straying stock and wildlife on the roads during and after a storm.

Storm WiseCaring for Pets in Storms

In 1990, heavy rains and �ooding in Queensland caused a loss of over agisted animals.

Photo courtesy of Mostyn Swain

Be Prepared

Bring pets indoors and move animals under shelter before a storm hits. Ensure all animals have access to clean water and food.

Secure loose objects around the home that may become airborne during high winds and cause damage to animals and property.

Plan to take your pets with you when you evacuate. Organise the appropriate carrier boxes, leads and transport.

Pack supplies for your pets in your emergency kit, including food, litter, water and medication.

If you intend to evacuate your property and cannot take large animals with you, ensure they are in a safe place. Move livestock to higher ground, and open gates to give animals access to other paddocks or areas to escape rising waters.

Make sure your pets have up-to-date identi�cation, by having them registered, microchipped and have a pet ID attached to their collar. Ensure that livestock can be identi�ed by a name tag or brand to help facilitate their return in case they become lost and displaced.

Check with your local council for evacuation arrangements in your area in times of disaster. Some evacuation centres may not accept pets (excluding service animals). Plan for this possibility to look after your animals.

Make sure neighbours and family include their pets in emergency plans.

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Storm WiseCaring for Pets in Storms

© State of Queensland (Queensland Fire and Emergency Services) 2017All Queensland Fire and Emergency Services material in this document – except any material protected by a trademark, and unless otherwise noted – is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence

ses.qld.gov.au

The Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) is a not-for-pro�t, community volunteer emergency service that is enabled by the State Government and Local Governments of Queensland. The Queensland SES is proudly supported by:

SES Assistance QLD Mobile App

For further information on how to keep your pets and agisted animals safe in extreme weather conditions, visit: - your local council website - Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries – daf.qld.gov.au - RSPCA Queensland – rspcaqld.org.au

If you have lost your pet, contact your local council or the RSPCA Queensland Lost & Found team on 1300 363 736.

To report sick, injured or distressed native wildlife call 1300 ANIMAL (264 625).

For more information on how to keep your home storm ready, visit ses.qld.gov.au.

Photo courtesy of Cockburn SES Unit