Keep Your Pets Safe During Irene

The following information was posted on the village website and is from the Bergen County Emergency Management Office (BCOEM):

All regional shelters in Bergen County will be pet friendly and will ONLY accept dogs and cats. No animal will be allowed into the pet shelter unless the pet is in a carrier. Please make sure you have all the necessary items you need to take care of your pet including food, water, leashes, etc. Under NO circumstances will pets be allowed into the human shelter. 

The most important thing a person can do is to plan ahead. If you are asked to evacuate, you need to bring your pets with you. You need to start thinking today about where you will take your pets -- ask a dependable friend or relative who lives some distance from the evacuation area if you and/or your pets can stay with them until the all clear is given. An alternative is to find a pet friendly motel. There a number of them listed on the web: 

http://www.pet-friendly-hotels.net/pet-friendly-hotels-newjersey.html

http://www.bringfido.com/lodging/state/new_jersey/

http://www.funnewjersey.com/upload_user/Weekend_Getaways/HOTELS.HTM

You should have a portable pet carrier for each animal and identification with each animal. Bring copies of the pet's licenses, leashes, water and food bowls, pet foods, bottled water, special medications and instructions for their administration, any special needs for your pet, blankets, handy wipes, paper towels and litter or bedding.

Go to http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/ah/pdf/petbro.pdf for more information on emergency planning for pets.

Go to http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/ah/pdf/livestockbro.pdf for more information on emergency planning for livestock.

Go to http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/ah/prog/helpfullinks.html for other helpful links.

Listen for public safety announcements and if you are called to evacuate -- DO NOT leave your pets behind