The Harris County Disaster Animal Management Task Force is a multi-agency task force developed to assist residents of Houston/Harris County to prepare their pets in the case of a disaster. Click here for a pdf version of their disaster preparedness brochure.

Here are the Survival 101 Basics:

Photograph each pet and store these pictures with other important documents, such as vaccination history and emergency contact information, in sealed/waterproof plastic bags. Tape one to the top of your pet's crate! Put a second copy in the portable disaster kit.

Have a crate or kennel for each four-legged family member. Familiarize your pet with his/her home-away-from-home before disaster strikes.

Make sure that all animals are up-to-date on their vaccinations.

All dogs and cats should wear collars and identification tags with current information. Dogs should wear nylon or leather collars only and never place tags on training collars or choke chains. Cats should wear a break-a-way/safety collar. You should include the name and phone number of a friend OUTSIDE the greater Houston area in case your phone service is not functioning immediately following a disaster.

Your pet should be microchipped. This permanent form of identification can prove ownership of your pet.

Pack a portable pet disaster kit in a waterproof airtight container and include the following:

Towels or blankets to line the carrier or crate.
Sheets to cover each carrier, if necessary.
Paper Towels.
Food and water, a one to two week supply, for each animal.
Food and water bowls.
Non-electric can opener.
Medications, a one month supply, clearly labeled with instructions. Include flea and heartworm preventative.
Litter, litterboxes and a scoop if you have cats.
A copy of your pet's vaccination records, microchip records, photograph, care instructions and contact information.
A list of pet friendly hotels/motels, boarding kennels, and vet offices.
Animal first aid kit.
Extra leashes.
Toys and treats.
Plastic bags for pet waste disposal.
Newspapers.
Disinfectants and other cleaning supplies.
Grooming supplies.

And, finally, if you must evacuate, take your pets with you! If conditions are unsafe for people, they are unsafe for pets.

Here are the links to our local animal shelters for more information:

The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Houston Humane Society
Citizens for Animal Protection

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