Oklahoma pet owners can be prepared for flooding

Emergency workers are evacuating parts of Canadian County this morning because of dangerous flooding. No doubt many of the homeowners are pet owners, too. When disaster strikes, being prepared is key.

The ASPCA offers these tips if you have to evacuate your home:

• - Make sure your pets have identification and collars, even if you have to improvise. ID tags should have the animal’s name,  your phone number and any pertinent medical info.
• - Keep your animals indoors (or in the car with you) as much as possible. Disaster situations are scary for animals and people, and you want to reduce the chance your pet will take off.
• - Stay at a pet-friendly place. Don’t leave your animals in the car if they can’t stay in a shelter or hotel. (TripsWithPets.com offers a list of pet-friendly hotels in Oklahoma.)
• - Bird owners: make sure your bird’s leg has an ID band and have photos of your bird available. Cover your bird’s cage to reduce stress. Use a timed feeder in case you have to leave your pet unattended.
• - Reptile owners: traveling temporarily with your snake in a pillowcase is OK, but try to find a more secure situation as soon as possible. Keep track of your reptile’s body temperature.
• - Small animal owners: like birds, try to keep your animals as calm as possible by finding a secure, quiet location.

If you can prepare ahead of time, do so. Disasters like the Canadian County flooding remind all of us to be ready. The Humane Society of the United States offers this list of necessary items to have on hand in case of emergency:

• - Food and water for at least five days and a manual can opener if necessary.
• - Medicine, medical records and the name and number of your vet.
• - Cat litter and litter box.
• - A sturdy leash, harness or carrier.
• - Current photos of your pet.
• - Pet beds and toys.

Staff Writer Carrie Coppernoll

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