PET CHECKLIST

Most disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety regulations. Exceptions are made for service animals.

Arrange for a neighbor to check on your pets

A neighbor in a hurricane resistant building or a faraway friend may take care of pets if a disaster occurs while you are not at home. Order a free animal Rescue Alert Sticker for pets left at home.

Keep your pet’s ID tags up to date

Consider having your pet micro-chipped. Take a photo of the dog, cat or horse with a family member as proof of ownership.

Build a Pet Kit

Make a disaster kit for each of your pets, include the following:

• Sturdy leashes and/or carriers to transport pets Animal shelters may require owners to provide a pet carrier for each animal.
• Current photos of your pets in case they get lost
• Food and potable water, for at least one week
• Bowls and can opener
• Cat litter and pan
• Plastic bags for sanitation purposes
• Pet toys
  
• Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems
• Immunization records
• Name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pets

Bring all pets into the house

This way you won't have to search for them if you have to leave in a hurry.

Know that animals react differently under stress

Outside your home and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. Transport cats in carriers. The most trustworthy pets may panic, hide, and try to escape or even bite or scratch.

Beware of vicious stray dogs

Because animals are more likely to bite or scratch under stress, it is important to avoid unfamiliar dogs. It is especially important at this time of year that your animals are vaccinated against rabies. PetFinder.com is a helpful resource in retrieving (or finding the owner of) a lost pet.

Consider hotels that accept pets

Hotels / Motels Year 2009 Accepting Pets

Comfort Inn
1904 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd WPB 33409
(561) 689-6100 Small pets, $25 fee, $10 per night/pet

Days Inn
2300 45th Street WPB 33407
(561) 689-0450 Any size pet, $30 fee

Hibiscus House (Bed and Breakfast)
501 30th Street WPB 33407
(561) 863-5633 No size restriction

LaQuinta Inn Jupiter
34 Fisherman's Wharf Jupiter 33477
(561) 575-7201 No charge, no weight restriction

LaQuinta Inn West Palm Beach
1910 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd WPB 33409
(561) 689-8540 Under 40 lbs, no deposit

LaQuinta Inn West Palm Beach/City Place
5981 Okeechobee Blvd WPB 33417
(561) 697-3388 No charge, no weight restriction

Red Roof Inn
2421 Metro Center Blvd East WBP 33407
(561) 697-7710 One pet only under 50 lbs.

Royal Inn
675 Royal Palm Beach Blvd RPB 33411
(561) 793-3000 / (800) 428-5389 Any size pet, $12 fee, $100 refundable deposit

Give your pets time to settle

When you return home, pets need time to settle back into their routines. Consult your veterinarian if any behavioral problems persist.

Last Modified July 28, 2009
Adapted from the 2009 Hurricane Preparedness Guide

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