Hello, Peeps.
This is the final part in the pets and natural disasters series. A link to my Part 1 on disaster preparations is here. Part 2 on the actual disaster is here.
But first,
You know how this works, but as always, a gentle reminder:
- No trolling the diary.
- If you hate pootie diaries, leave now. No harm, no foul.
- Share any and all pootie/woozle photos or issues that you would like .
- When it comes to problems, we may just have someone with experience who can help.
- Whatever happens in the outer blog STAYS in the outer blog. This is a place to relax and play; please treat it accordingly.
- There is no such thing as stealing a photo around here, but if you would like a pic from the comment threads, please ask the poster. He/she may have a copyright to those pics. Many thanks!
- It should not need to be said, but ANY/ALL photos that imply or encourage human violence against an animal will be considered verboten! Whether it is “comedic” or not, it will be frowned upon and considered out of bounds.
So you have survived the natural disaster. What’s next?
Your first instinct after a disaster is over is probably going to be to check your pets and livestock for injuries or exposure to toxins. Contact their veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Once the disaster is over do not go outside and poke around until you know it’s safe. There can be all sorts of hazards, from downed power lines to puddles of toxic chemicals to dangerous wildlife. Remember, boil water orders apply to your pets and livestock as well as you.
These ordeals can be as traumatic for your pets as it is for you. Start your pets’ recoveries by feeding them small meals several times a day. Increase the amounts over the next few days. Don’t forget bottled or boiled water. Also, let your pets have plenty of undisturbed sleep. When they are awake, play with them with their favorite toys. Pets pick up on our emotions. Please, try to be cheerful for your pet’s sake.
It’s normal for your pets’ behaviors to change after natural disasters. All their old familiar sites and scents can be altered. Your pet will likely be upset by all this. Your normally friendly dog may bite. He might even get lost if let loose. It’s probably for the best if you kept him on a leash or a tether until he regains his bearings. And do your best to stay near him. In some states it’s illegal to leave him tethered alone in or after severe weather.
If your pets do become lost either during or after a natural disaster visit the local animal shelters. An in-person visit is better than a phone call. This is when a microchip will really pay off. Also, post pictures of your lost pet around the area.
Warning—lost pet ads often bring out scammers, especially when a reward is mentioned. If you lost a pet and you get a call always arrange to meet the finder in a well-lit, public place. Better yet, ask a friend to come along.
Well, I hope you have found this series useful.
So what’s happening with your critters?