In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do for your pets is to evacuate them too. Pets are not allowed in public shelters for health and space reasons. For more information about disaster planning for animals, including pet-friendly motels around the state, contact your local emergency preparedness officials, animal control agency, humane society or veterinarian. For online information about animal preparedness visit http://www.clemson.edu/LPH/emergencypreparedness.htm.

S.C Animal Care and Control

1-803-776-7387

S.C. Association of Veterinarians

1-800-441-7228

For detailed information on livestock and horse evacuation procedures, contact the Clemson University Cooperative Extension office in each county, Clemson Livestock-Poultry Health Programs, 803-788-2260 or SC Department of Agriculture, 803-734-2200. Stabling information (and some information about livestock feed, hay) is available through Clemson Livestock-Poultry Health Programs as well as the SC Department of Agriculture. Contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.

Before

• Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
• Have a current photograph.
• Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
• Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
• Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.
• If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.

During

• Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have: Proper identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and newspapers or trash bags for clean-up.
• Bring pets indoors well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.
• Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.

After

• Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home. Often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.
• If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.
• After a disaster, animals can become aggressive or defensive. Monitor their behavior.
• Don't forget your pet when preparing a family disaster plan.

Pet Disaster Supply Kit

• Proper identification including immunization records
• Ample supply of food and water
• A carrier or cage
• Medications
• Muzzle, collar and leash

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