Pet shelters are open for Long Island pet owners forced to evacuate their homes as Hurricane Sandy moves its way into the area.
The Suffolk SPCA has two locations that allow owners to stay in the same shelter as their animals open and functioning. One is at Suffolk Community College Eastern Campus, located on Riverhead Speonk Road in Riverhead, and the other is the Brentwood Recreational Center at 99 Third Avenue in Brentwood. These shelters operate on a first come, first serve basis and can fit approximately 250 people and their pets in each. Animals allowed in the shelters are dogs, cats and birds.
“I always suggest to people to try to make arrangements with relatives out of harm’s way, but if there are no other options the pet-friendly shelters are there for them,” SPCA Chief Roy Gross said.
Nassau County has a pet shelter at the Mitchel Athletic Complex’s Administration Building in Uniondale. This shelter is pets only, and residents will have to stay at other shelters.
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Owners are asked to bring an identification collar, leash, food, toys, proof of vaccinations and any medications that the animal takes. It is strongly encouraged to bring a carrier or cage as well. All belongings should be labeled.
Residents who are not evacuating should also have a pet preparedness plan for the storm. Owners are advised to bring pets indoors well before the storm hits, and should have proof of vaccinations, an identification collar and a carrier ready in case of an emergency evacuation. They should also have extra pet food and water on hand.
After the storm passes, owners should walk pets on a leash until they become reacquainted with their surroundings. Animals can often become confused or get lost if landmarks are altered. Downed power lines, high water and debris are also dangerous animals after a storm.
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