Protecting pets from severe weather
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- As the snow melts, do you have a plan for your cats or dogs for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms?
Most pet owners lack a severe weather plan for their pets, according to the Shelter Animals County website.
St. Joseph Animal Services introduces pet owners to the acronym ‘PETS’ when preparing for emergencies. P stands for prepare, gathering around supplies for a pet in emergency situations such as leashes, carriers, food, water, medication, shot records, and more.
E standing for evacuation plan, another part of preparing is making sure that wherever shelter from the storm may be, the destination, no matter where it may be, accepts animals, according to St. Joseph Animal Service Senior Animal Control Officer Matt Allen, who has nearly 30 years of experience.
T stands for track, ensuring the pet has a tracking system or tag on or in their body.
This can be, but is not limited to, having a microchip administered by a professional that includes all the latest information on how the pet can be returned. Allen also mentioned that having a GPS tracking device, such as an Apple AirTag or similar device, can help track down a furry loved one.
However, owners can also have a basic tag on their pet's collar with their name and phone number for basic retrieval.
Secure shelter is the S of the safety acronym for pet owners, meaning to make sure that if a storm is coming in, get the animals to a safe shelter. This can include, but is not limited to, bringing the pet inside to a safe, dry home or providing a sturdy pet shelter that can withstand the elements.
One of the most common factors Allen has seen during his time as a control officer is pet owners being stressed out during a storm while making sure their pet is safe.
“A lot of times, not only is the owner stressed out, but the pet is stressed out as well,” Allen told KQ2. “Pets can sense that, and so your pet may act a little bit differently during those situations. That's why we encourage you to practice your plan when it's not the real situation.”
Having a crate or kennel ready in a spot for severe weather and introducing animals to them early would assist in the heat of the moment.
If a pet goes missing within St. Joseph City’s limits, Allen shared that they can only identify a microchipped pet over the phone. Otherwise, owners would have to come down to the shelter to identify their lost dog or cat.
“Just don't get too frazzled. Don't get too worked up. We have pretty good warning systems nowadays,” Allen shared. “A little bit of preparation ahead of time goes a long way. (6:35) It's much easier to remember things when you're calm and cool and collected (6:39) versus when you have eight things running through your head at the last minute.”
For other tips and tricks on preparing pets for dangerous situations, it's advised to speak with a veterinarian for animal-specific advice.
