Animal Companions
Pets, too, need disaster preparedness

By the Hawaiian Humane Society

Patrick Yee, left, and Pooky enjoy a day at McInerny Dog Park with Tiffany Chun and Binky. Hawaiian Humane Society

Start now:

• In the event of sudden disaster, determine a safe place in your home for you and your pets, away from windows and free of breakable objects.
• If you live in a low-lying or coastal area that is likely to be evacuated in an emergency, make arrangements for you and your pets to stay with a friend or relative living on higher ground.
• Keep a pet carrier (crate) on hand for each animal. Familiarize pets with the carrier so they feel comfortable inside.
• Be sure pets wear their identification at all times. A properly fitted collar and leash are also essential for dogs.
• Check with your local veterinary clinic or in the Yellow Pages to find boarding facilities in safe areas; create a list for easy reference.
• Keep your pet's vaccinations updated, and have the documentation handy. Many boarding facilities require proof of current vaccinations. Also take a photo of your pet to help ensure identification if you are separated.
• Stock up on food and litter as well as newspapers, plastic bags and cleansers to handle pet wastes, and keep an adequate supply of pet medications.
• Have an extra supply of dry food.

During an emergency:

• Bring pets indoors as soon as word of disaster hits.
• Fill sturdy, nonspilling water containers; be sure pets have adequate supplies of food that won't spoil.
• If you must leave your house because it is considered unsafe, it is unsafe for your pet as well. Take your pet with you to the prearranged boarding facility.
• In an extreme emergency, bring your pets to the evacuation shelter. Leave them outside in your car parked in a protected area. Make your pets comfortable inside their carriers with food and water. Leave a car window open slightly to provide ventilation.

After a disaster:

• Be careful letting your pet loose outdoors as familiar scents and landmarks may have been altered, causing your pet to get confused and possibly lost. Other dangers may be nearby including downed power lines and debris.

The Humane Society has two brochures that list steps to prepare for emergencies, one for pets and one for horses. To receive a copy by mail, call 946-2187, ext. 223, and leave your name and mailing address on the voice mail.

Adoptables

Bonnie

Tag No. 28410

This exotic cat is a tigery blend of black and orange fur with gorgeous green eyes. She's a slender and athletic adult. When adopted, Bonnie will be spayed and have initial vaccinations and a microchip ID. This bonnie lass is looking for love.

Sweetie

Tag No. 8704

Sweetie is a very easy-going gal who is about 8 years old with a heritage of heeler and husky. Mellow and people-centered, she would love to take long, easy walks with you on a leash. Sweetie has tested positive for heartworms, but this can be treated and she even has a sponsor to help with the cost.

Panda

Tag. No. 88018

The diminutive Panda, about 2, is part dwarf rabbit. She is all white with black around her eyes and black smudges on her ears. If you recognize this rabbit, call the Lost and Found line.

Hawaiian Humane Society hours: noon-8 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. The incoming animals area is open 24 hours daily.