How to prepare for a flood when you have a dog

If the last few weeks have taught Aussies anything, it's that Mother Nature rarely makes her plans known. The recent floods in QLD and the east coast of NSW have caused absolute devastation, and despite being warned of heavy rainfall, few were prepared for just how quickly the water would rise around them.

Watching the catastrophe unfold across our televisions was heartbreaking, even more heart wrenching were the animals that were left behind due to the prioritisation of human life.

Whilst the predictions are that we have weathered the peak of La Nina, it’s safe to say that Mother Nature is unpredictable and it pays to be prepared in case of a flooding event.

Here are our top tips to ensure you’re prepared for a flooding event:

-       Ensure your dog is up to date with vaccinations

-       Microchip your dog (if you haven’t already) and ensure all contact information is up to date

-       Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with up to date contact information

-       Prepare an emergency kit for your dog including:

-       Understand where you can relocate your pet in an emergency (boarding facility or family member located away from flood-prone areas).

Stay well-informed of the warnings and don’t wait until there is water lapping your front lawn to leave. Make the call early and move yourself and your pooch to a safe location.

Place your pooch in a carrier or crate and pack your emergency kit when you leave the house.

If you are planning on going to an evacuation centre, ensure you understand whether animals are being accepted, as not all centres will allow pets.

If you find yourself in an impossible situation and are forced to leave your dog behind, it’s critical you give them the best chance of survival:

1.     Do not chain or tether them as they will be unable to flee from danger

2.     Leave at least 1 week's worth of food and water in accessible places across multiple locations

3.     Ensure they are wearing their collar with up to date contact information

4.    Place furniture or objects in places they can climb to seek refuge in higher areas such as cupboards or benches

5.     Tape a note to the front door or mailbox with your contact information and details on your pooch (name and photo).