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Reuniting Lost Pets With Their Owners After a Natural Disaster

Because we live in Coastal Texas where a few months of each year we live with the threat of hurricanes, we have given much thought to our pets and what to do if we have to evacuate, or our pets are lost after or during a storm.  Often, an animal's first reaction or instinct is to head for cover, sometimes without the benefit of its owner's help.  The recent tornadoes in the Midwest have separated many pets from their human Moms and Dads.  So, what do you do to prepare for something like a hurricane? And how can you be ready for a tornado or flash flood? 

We all like to think that a natural disaster could not happen to us, but, consider for a minute, what if it did?  Thinking about it having a plan in place is a big plus in not becoming separated in the first place. And, then, should the worst happen, your plan makes it easier for those who may find your pet get you together again.

Pet ID tags -  Have a pet ID made with the animal's name, your mobile phone number and the phone number of someone you trust (parent or sibling) living in another state.  Should your pet be lost in a storm, the finder can easily track you down by talking to the person at the number on the tag.  Since that person is not impacted by the disaster and you will have called to say you are OK, it is just a matter of the person called writing down the info of the finder and relaying it to you. 

Microchips or Implants - We have heard pros and cons about the ID chips and chose to get them for our dogs.  The biggest con was not all vets/clinics/shelters had standardized equipment to scan the tag.  That is no longer the case; it is a safe, inexpensive way to make sure your pet can be identified, even if he has lost his collar.   Our local SPCA injected the chips at a cost of about $25 each. It took just a few minutes and has given us tremendous peace of mind.

When facing a weather disaster and going into a safe room or shelter, take your pets on leash.  If your pet tries to run when startled, you will be able to control its movements.

Check out your SPCA or Humane Society for dogs found after a disaster.  This sounds like a no brainer, but when you are under a lot of stress, you may not think of this. 

After the Tuscaloosa storm, this Site provided a slide show to reunite pets with owners:  http://www.wwltv.com/news/slideshows/SLIDESHOW-Animals-make-news-everyday-121631869.html

In Joplin, Missouri, a disaster response team was formed to set up a temporary animal shelter on Missouri Southern State University's campus.  More information can be found here: The Humane Society of Missouri

It's something we hope to never deal with, but knowing you have resources to keep your pet safe in an emergency or find him right after is worth the time and effort. May God hold close those, human and animal, dealing with the aftermath of the recent terrible storms.

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