The Northern Territory Government’s Animal Welfare Inspectors are urging Territorians to plan for the care of their pets in the lead up to the start of the cyclone season on November 1.

“Storm events with lightning and thunder and heavy rain can be a frightening and dangerous event not only for humans but also for pets. Pets under stress often get confused, disorientated and panic and run away from home,” Senior Animal Welfare Inspector Lucas McCauley said.

“A well thought out plan can help reduce the risks and ensure the safety of both pets and owners.

“Now is the time to start planning to ensure your animals remain safe and contained during any extreme weather event. You need to decide if your pets will stay at home or go with you to a designated pet-friendly shelter,” Mr McCauley said.

“Identification is vital – that means pets need to be micro chipped, registered with your local council and have a name tag with a contact telephone number. It’s also good to have a recent picture of your pet to help authorities identify it,” Mr McCauley said.

Wildlife Manager Mandy Hall from the Ark Animal Hospital said the pressure on the centre can increase dramatically during bad weather events.

“We tend to get an influx of animals into the hospital following severe weather events. Therefore it’s really important that people take the necessary steps to ensure their pets can be identified. Unfortunately, if they can’t be identified they are sent to their local pound, where there is a risk the animals will be euthanised,” Mrs Hall said.

A cyclone kit for pets is highly recommended; this should contain food and water for at least three days, a collar and lead, blankets, towels and bedding, first aid items and medicines, pet medical history and vet contacts.

For more information on animal welfare, visit www.animalwelfare.nt.gov.au or contact the Animal Welfare Branch on 1300 720 386. For more information on preparing for cyclones, go to www.securent.nt.gov.au.

For further information please contact:
Alice Plate, Media and Communications Manager, Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries on 08 8999 2097 or 0419 106 309.