In Case of a Disaster
By L. Vanessa Gruden in Paw Printz, May - June, 2001

As hurricane and tornado season arrives, here’s some tips in case a natural disaster strikes YOU:

• If you must evacuate, take your ferret along.  Pets left behind in a cage are helpless if the storm damages your home. They might also escape through broken windows and can easily be injured, lost or killed.
   

• Seek pet-friendly housing BEFORE the storm hits.  Shelters rarely accept pets, but you probably have a Motel 6 or other pet-friendly motel/hotel in the area.  Is there a nearby friend or relative that can care for your pet for a couple days in an emergency?  Or keep a list of vets or boarding facilities that will be safe and secure.
   

• Keep a pet carrier set up and ready to go when the weather threatens.  Have a clean, empty jug you can put water in and a Ziploc baggie or container to keep food dry.  Pack a small “suitcase” of extra litter, newspapers, paper towels and bedding.  If your animal is on medication, make sure you have enough on hand and bring it with you.  For those ferrets who need gruel, keep a Thermos where you can store a day’s supply in case your power goes out.