Urgent Warning: Animals Will Die, So Take Them Along in Icy Flood Evacuations

PETA Warns Against Leaving Animals Behind to Freeze or Fend for Themselves as Hangman (aka “Latah”) Creek Rises

For Immediate Release:
February 16, 2017

Contact:
Brooke Rossi 202-483-7382

Spokane County, Wash. –

As the potential for flooding along Hangman (aka “Latah”) Creek threatens your area, PETA is offering important advice for ensuring the safety of companion animals should residents experience major flooding or be forced to evacuate. The following information could help save the lives of cats, dogs, birds, and other animals who should be included in disaster-preparedness plans:

During a flood, never leave your animals outdoors, tied up, or confined in any way, as they will be trapped and unable to flee rising waters. This is especially critical during the bitter winter cold: Although they have fur coats, dogs and other animals can still suffer from deadly frostbite and exposure.
In the event of an evacuation, never leave your animals behind to fend for themselves. They aren’t equipped to survive disasters any better than humans are.
Know your emergency destination ahead of time. Shelters for human victims often don’t allow animals, but motels in the area may accept them in an emergency. Call destinations in advance, and find out which ones will accommodate you and your animals.
Never leave animals unsupervised in a car—they can panic and try to escape or be stolen from parked vehicles.
Place small animals in secure carriers, and keep dogs leashed. Frightening sounds and unfamiliar surroundings may make them bolt. Take water and food bowls, your animals’ favorite toy or blanket, a towel, and enough food to last them at least a week.
Watch for other animals in need, including strays and those who are left behind by neighbors. If you see animals in distress and are unable to help them, note their condition and location and call authorities for help as soon as possible.

A copy of PETA’s disaster-preparedness public service announcement is available to link to or download here.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.