Media release

With a cyclone expected to form off Australia’s north coast on Christmas Eve, the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is warning pet owners to plan ahead.

AVA spokesperson Dr Alex Burleigh says that people with pets, horses and livestock should be prepared.  

“The Bureau of Meteorology has put areas between Dundee Beach and Nhulunbuy, including Darwin, on a cyclone watch,” said Dr Burleigh.

“Just as natural disasters can be extremely traumatic for people the same can be true for our livestock and pets. Planning ahead by preparing an emergency kit and an animal evacuation plan can help to reduce anxiety, he said.”

“Put together an emergency kit with lots of non-perishable food (dry food) and water in spill-proof containers. It’s also important to be prepared for possible disruption of services, including power, water and phone lines for extended periods of time,” he said.

The AVA has produced a series of brochures with useful information about protecting pets and livestock during a cyclone. Information is also available on the AVA’s website at: www.ava.com.au/about_pets

Key things to remember when preparing for a cyclone:

• If a cyclone hits, are you going to evacuate or stay at home?
• If you need to evacuate, do you have a place to take your animals – consider friends, kennels and animal shelters (outside the danger zone).
• If your pet is staying at home, think about confining it in the safest enclosed room of the house e.g. the bathroom, and DO NOT tie your pet up. Allow access to food and water.
• Talk to yourneighboursand tell them about your evacuation plans in case you are away.
• Ensure your emergency kit contains plenty of non-perishable food (e.g. dry food) and water in spill-proof containers.