Unfortunately, pets are often forgotten in an emergency. It’s up to you as a pet owner to have a plan to keep your pets safe.
To know what to do in an emergency and to help your family get through, head to Civil defence or Bay Of Plenty Emergency Management.
Civil defence Bay Of Plenty Emergency Management
Looking after your pet in an emergency:
- Make a plan for your pet. If you leave your pet behind, they may get lost or injured, or worse. You might ask neighbours or other pet owners close by to help.
- Prepare a getaway kit specifically for your pet. Include important information like contact numbers (for your vet, kennels and catteries or pet-friendly hotels) and copies of medical and vaccination records. Don’t forget collars and leads and familiar items such as favourite toys or blankets. Keep a crate or pet carrier handy.
- Microchip your pet and keep your information updated. Make sure your cat or dog has an identity tag.
- A dog's microchip number can be recorded with your local Council free of charge.
- For all other animals, check out the Companion Animals Register NZ.
- Stay informed. It is important that you know where you will get your information during an event.
Animal Welfare Emergency Management
In an emergency
Your pet may be frightened, stressed, or display some abnormal behavioural traits, so it is important to be calm and confident.
If you need to evacuate, take your pets with you if you can safely do so. Plan in advance for alternatives that will work for both you and your pets and listen to your radio for more information about pet-friendly shelters.
Horses, pigs, poultry and livestock should be moved to paddocks away from floodwaters, landslides and power lines. In the event of an evacuation, have a plan in place so that they will be secure and have food, water and shelter.
It is your responsibility to ensure your animals are cared for in an emergency.