Harris County Invites Residents to Smart PAWZ Preparedness Event
(Houston, Texas) – June is National Pet Preparedness Month and a great time to make sure you and your pet(s) are ready for emergencies. The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) and participating preparedness partners including Harris County Animal Shelter (Veterinary Public Health), Houston SPCA, HOPE Crisis Therapy Dogs, Friends of County Pets, Best Friends and the National Weather Service are hosting the third annual Smart PAWZ pet preparedness event.
Smart PAWZ is taking place at Houston TranStar, 6922 Katy Road, on Thursday, June 13th from 6-7:30 p.m. This free pet preparedness event provides pet owners with information about how to keep their pets safe in the event of a natural disaster and/or everyday emergencies. The public is invited to bring their pets (leash required), get information and enter a raffle to win prizes. Prizes are courtesy of Harris County Public Health and Urban Tails Pet Resort.
HCOHSEM reminds residents that it is crucial to include pets in their disaster plans. Pets depend on their owners to keep them safe. Please do not wait until the last minute to prepare. Also, if you need to evacuate your home during an emergency, never leave your pets behind.
The following is a list of things you should do to prepare your pet(s) for emergencies:
- Ensure your pet can be identified with a microchip or collar ID tag, and that contact information is up-to-date.
- Keep health/vaccination records in a safe place and take copies of these if you are leaving your home.
- Prepare a pet emergency supplies kit that is readily accessible when needed. Include toys, treats and bedding.
- Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or window to let first responders know there is a pet in the house.
- Bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home in a crisis.
- Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house when frightened. Finding your pet quickly will help you evacuate faster.
- If you need to evacuate, take a pet carrier or crate for transport and safekeeping.
- Identify a location to take your pet if you need to leave your immediate area. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people may not be open to pets. Find hotels and motels with pet-friendly policies and ask relatives or friends if they can house you and your pet.
- Carry a picture of your pet in the event of separation.
Disasters and other unexpected emergencies require readiness for every member of the family, including pets. With hurricane season underway, HCOHSEM encourages residents to incorporate the needs of their pets in their disaster plans. For additional pet preparedness tips, go to ReadyHarris.org.