As the UK is battered by floods and storms, the RSPCA is urging animal owners to keep an eye on the weather forecast in their area and plan ahead. Being prepared for flooding will help you get your animals to safety more easily. Here you’ll find advice from the RSPCA on what to do to prepare for floods and how to help keep your animals safe:

Before it floods: be prepared

Have an emergency plan in place so that you’re ready to act if the worst happens:

  • Plan your escape route in case of an emergency.
  • Ensure you can be contacted in an emergency and keep phone numbers of people who can help move your animals.
  • Download the RSPCA’s Flood advice poster – it contains emergency numbers you might need.
  • Make sure you have suitable carriers for small animals.
  • Keep a supply of food for evacuation.
  • For livestock and horses, fit any extra gates you need for emergency access and attach your details on field gates.

If the flood rises: act early

Floodwater rises rapidly. If there’s a flood warning, don’t just hope for the best – act early.

Pets

  • Bring all small animals inside and, if possible, move them upstairs.
  • Move food, bedding and fresh water somewhere dry.
  • Keep favourite toys dry, as these may comfort your pet.
  • Seal up important documents such as microchip numbers, vets and vaccination details in a watertight bag, along with a photo of your pet in case they get lost.

Livestock and horses

  • Move animals to high ground and do this early.
  • Emergency supplies – make sure you have emergency feed and fresh water supplies.

If disaster strikes: put your flood plan into action

If the worst happens, put your flood plan for your animals into action. Never put your own or another life in danger to attempt an animal rescue.

Pets

  • Transport small animals in suitable carriers, birds in a secure cage and dogs using sturdy leashes.
  • Bring their things – remember to take your animals’ food, water, bowls and bedding with you.
  • If you have to leave your animals behind, leave them inside an upstairs room with plenty of food and water. Leave notices on the outside doors to say there are animals inside and contact us or your local Flood Warden immediately.

Livestock and horses

  • Move animals to high ground if the escape route is accessible and you haven’t already.
  • Emergency supplies – make sure you have emergency feed and fresh water supplies.

Stay updated about floods

You can call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 for information and flood warnings 24 hours a day, or check for flood warnings at.

Source (words and picture): RSPCA

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