How can you care for your animals in wild weather?

• Provide pets with a safe and secure environment. Some pets may need temporary accommodation depending on the severity of the situation at home.
• A frightened dog may display a range of out of character behaviours including hiding under furniture, drooling, pacing, barking, destructive chewing and attempts to escape. If your dog is anxious, you can try using Adaptil, a natural appeasing pheromone, or Feliway in cats. A thundershirt may help to reassure your dog.
• Flood water may be contaminated with sewage containing E. coli or parasites such as giardia, which can cause serious gastrointestinal upsets to include vomiting and diarrhoea. Ensure you provide fresh water to minimise the chance that your dog may drink storm water. Provide some of their favourite food as well.
• If you have an outdoor pet, set up an indoor area that is safe and secure. The laundry or bathroom aregood temporary locations as they are tiled and your pet may feel safer in a smaller space. Any areas in the home that are safe and secure are also ok. Most pets like a cubby hole or secure environment to seek refuge. Ensure they cannot hurt themselves.

• Stay safe, ensure you're away from flood waters and follow directions from authorities.
• Pack plenty of fresh water and try to avoid your pet drinking contaminated flood water.
• Don't forget to pack your pet's food, any medications, collars and leads for dogs and secure carrier for cats and smaller pets.

• Take them to your closest Vet to be scanned for a microchip as soon as possible and when travel is safe. We are able to attempt to re-unite these pets with their owners if their information is up to date.
• Many wildlife are scared as they have been removed from their local habitat. Gently place a towel over them and securely transport to your nearest vet or call your nearest Wildlife rescue. Be careful as they may bite.

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