FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 25, 2004
CONTACT: (850) 921-0384

Protecting Animals During a Storm

TALLAHASSEE – As Hurricane Jeanne approaches and Florida residents evacuate to secure shelters, designated facilities across the Southeastern United States are sheltering livestock, horses and household pets. The Division of Animal Industry in Florida, Georgia and Alabama will accept animals seeking refuge in their states under specific guidelines.

Animal owners should be advised of the following:

• All pets and livestock should wear proper identification that includes medical history and an emergency contact phone number at all times.
• Call ahead to hotels, motels and shelters to be sure they accept guests with animals.
• Ask about rules for number, size and species of pets allowed.
• Try not to leave your animals behind during evacuations as this may result in their death or severe injury.