ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Keep emergency pet supplies handy
Hawaiian Humane Society
Hawaiian Humane Society
With hurricane season in full swing, now is a great time to prepare for potential emergencies.
In the event of an emergency, Jadie Fukumoto's puppy, Lincoln, will feel comfortable and safe in his crate.
September is National Preparedness month, and planning should take every possibility into consideration, including the safety of pets.
If you are planning to ride out the storm at a friend's home, leave early — don't wait for mandatory evacuation.
If you wait to be evacuated by emergency officials, you may be told to leave your pets behind.
The most important thing that can be done to protect pets is to take them along when owners evacuate. Animals left inside a house can escape through storm-damaged areas, such as broken windows. Leaving dogs tied or chained outside in a disaster could endanger their lives.
Animals turned loose can become victims of exposure, starvation or accidents.
Collar and leash. A properly fitted collar is essential for dogs and handy for cats. Keep collars and leashes near the pet crates. Identification. Animals should wear an ID at all times. Keep current photos, and ensure all cats and dogs have microchips. Owners who have moved or changed phone numbers should update their contact information at www.hawaiianhumane.org. Vaccination records. Keep pet vaccinations up-to-date, and have veterinary records near carriers. Many kennels require proof of vaccinations. Supplies for three days. Set aside dry pet food and kitty litter as well as newspapers, plastic bags, paper towels and cleaners to handle pet wastes. Include non-spill bowls for water and food, medications, and jugs of fresh water for pets.
Even if you decide to leave for just a few hours, take your animals. Once you leave, it's impossible to know how long you may be kept out of the area.
A pet survival kit should include A carrier or crate for each pet. Before a disaster strikes, get pets used to being in the carrier. The crate should be large enough that the pet can stand up and turn around inside it.
Pets are not permitted in public emergency shelters, so families should have an alternative plan.
But as a last resort if you have to go to a shelter, take your pets along. They can stay in their owner's car parked in a protected area at the emergency shelter.
If you are considering boarding your animals during an emergency, check out vets and kennels ahead of time. Many boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations, so ensure that shots are always up to date.
The kennels should be out of the hazard area and have a plan for emergency evacuation.
Families who live on higher ground and opt to stay at home during an emergency should determine the safest place in the house. It should be away from windows and breakable objects. Pets must be brought indoors well ahead of time.
If the thought of a natural disaster seems like a prescription for anxiety, the best remedy is a well thought out plan that ensures that your family and pets are safe.
Lost and found
In the event a pet is missing, a report should be filed immediately with the Hawaiian Humane Society. Call 946-2187, ext. 285 24 hours a day to report lost or found animals. A photo of your pet will help with identification.
Reclaim lost pets from noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and holidays at the shelter, 2700 Wai'alae Ave. in Mo'ili'ili. The shelter's incoming-animal area is open 24 hours to accept lost or injured animals.
Adoptables
Mr. Fat Cat
I
Tag no. 41914
At 7 years of age, this impressive cat qualifies for the Seniors for Seniors program. His adoption fee is waived for someone age 60 or older. Mr. Fat Cat's former owner says he is a great lap cat and enjoys other cats and even dogs.
Boomer
Tag no. 495.
Boomer is a bouncy terrier mix, not too big, not too small. His fluffy white and gray fur gives him a happy-go-lucky look. At 18 months old, Boomer would be an active companion for a loving person.
These particular animals may have already found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Avenue are open noon to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. The incoming-animals area is open 24 hours. If you've lost or found an animal, call the society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285. See www.hawaiianhumane.org.
