A cyclone can be frightening for our animals, who have no other way of comprehending what’s taking place. But there are methods we can reduce their tension.
The SPCA has published important advice to help animals through this duration. And right at the top of the list is the requirement to keep animals inside throughout the storm, for their own safety. It’s a good concept to designate a space in your home, or the home of friend or other member of the family – a location where they can feel safe.
You likewise require to make certain they have all the needed materials, consisting of food, water, bowls, a leash and any medications they might require – this is specifically crucial if you require to leave in a rush. It likewise pays to keep cat cages useful simply in case, and any bed linen and toys they may require to feel comfy. And this uses to cages and basics for other animals too.
Have a litter box or newspapers on hand for your pet, along with poo bags and household bleach.
READ MORE:
* The Whole Truth: Taping windows, or opening them, will not help and could be dangerous during cyclone
* Cyclone Gabrielle: ‘Stay home, avoid non-essential travel’ officials warn
In the even of a power failure, it’s best to avoid using candles or open flames that animals might knock over in a panic.
It’s best to keep pets indoors during a storm, preferably in a designated room with food, water, bedding and toys that may be a comfort.
Evacuating and boarding
If you do need to evacuate, keep animals contained in a cage or on a lead at all times when you leave the house. It is a good idea to have an ID tag on your animal’s collar with your name and contact number, and ideally, your address so they can be returned easily if they do get lost.
The SPCA also suggests storing a photo of your pet and a note of identifying features in your get-away kit.
Keep a list of “animal friendly” shelters such as hotels, motels, kennels, catteries or local vet centres in your home and get-away kits. Note that you may need to provide veterinary records before they will accept your animals.
You may be able to have alternative pet accommodation planned with friends or family, who can take care of them if you are unable to do so.
If you are in Auckland and can’t take animals with you, the Ministry of Primary Industries with animal charity HUHA has set up temporary animal shelters for companion animals. Owners are unable to stay with their animals but can visit. And people are advised to get in early if they see an evacuation looming.
HUHA’s temporary animal shelter for companion animals is at 743 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Ardmore (phone 0274 416 474).
If your animal is still left in your house, you can contact Auckland Emergency Management on 0800 22 22 00 for assistance (via Ministry for Primary Industries).
Dogs: If you have a dog that requires temporary accommodation, there is space available at the following Auckland Council animal shelters:
Henderson Animal Shelter, 48 The Concourse, Henderson, Auckland (09 836 7777).
Silverdale Animal Shelter, 47 Tavern Road, Silverdale 0932 (09 421 0222).
Manukau Animal Shelter, 33 Mclaughlins Road, Auckland 2104 (09 261 8033).
123rf
Having key items on hand for your pet will make things easier if you do need to evacuate.
Henderson Animal Shelter is also equipped to house companion animals, including cats, rabbits and guinea pigs. There will be no cost for this.
The SPCA says don’t be concerned if your dog is not microchipped or registered. Auckland Council is offering free microchipping and registration of all dogs and microchipping of small animals affected by this flood response. You will not be fined if your dog is not registered.
If you are requiring temporary housing which can take your animals, please ensure you mention this when discussing your requirements with Civil Defence.
Some temporary accommodation facilities such as hotels/motels will accept pets if they are able to be contained or crated.
Community hubs
Pets can also be taken to community hubs if you are going to be staying there. Again, you will need to bring essential items.
There are animal care packages containing food and supplies are available to pet owners in need at the following community hubs:
After the cyclone
The SPCA recommends you check your pets for any injuries and seek veterinary care if necessary.
If you need to take your pets outside, make sure they are on a leash. The storm might have caused changes to the environment, so be cautious of unfamiliar surroundings and make sure your pets are supervised at all times and do not let them run into floodwaters.
Refer to www.spca.nz/pets-in-emergencies for more information. If you are out of Auckland, contact your regional council regarding area in animal shelters.
TVNZ
SPCA Rescue follows SPCA Inspectors as they work to help mistreated and abandoned animals around Aotearoa.
