Urgent: Survival Tips for Animals in the Event of an Evacuation

For Immediate Release:
April 11, 2024

Contact:
Nicole Perreira 202-483-7382

With residents on notice to possibly evacuate after the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office announced that the Panguitch Lake Dam could fail due to a 60-foot crack in the structure, PETA is reminding the public to stay vigilant as the situation develops, never leave dogs tethered or penned outside, and always take their animal companions with them if they have to evacuate their homes.

When a disaster occurs, many dogs and other companion animals are left outside to fend for themselves and even left behind when humans evacuate. Dogs kept tethered will swim to exhaustion and drown—and there are tethered dogs everywhere. PETA’s Animal Rescue Team has witnessed firsthand the trauma that animals endure when left behind to face floodwaters and flying debris. During previous flooding, we have found dogs dead. We have also found them up to their necks in water, unable to sit or lie down, and in almost-submerged crates inside houses.

• Keep all animals indoors with you as the situation develops. Never leave them tethered, penned, or crated outside.
• If you evacuate, plan your destination in advance and don’t leave animals behind or unsupervised in a car.
• Be prepared: Use secure carriers, leashes, and harnesses. Bring along water and food bowls, a favorite toy, a blanket, a towel, and enough food for a week. Have your animals microchipped, and attach legible ID tags securely to their collars.

Watch for other animals in trouble. If you see any animals in distress but can’t help, note their location and call authorities immediately.

PETA’s Have a Plan PSA and disaster-preparedness PSA reminds people to make plans to ensure the safety of their animal companions long before evacuating. For more information, please visit PETA.org.