Pet friendly shelter now available in Santa Rosa County

Pet friendly shelter now available in Santa Rosa County

By Santa Rosa PIO
September 11, 2009

Santa Rosa County recognizes that many people consider their pets as part of their family. Animal services and emergency management now offer residents with cats or dogs a pet friendly shelter as an option for their disaster sheltering needs.

The facility is located at Avalon Middle School, 5445 King Arthurs Way in Milton.

Pre-registration for the pet friendly shelter is required and available online at www.santarosa.fl.gov/emergency/shelters.html.

Those without home Internet access are encouraged to use the computer resources at any of the five county libraries or a paper application can be picked up in Milton at animal services located at 4451 Pine Forest Road and cooperative extension service on 6263 Dogwood Drive, or the Santa Rosa County Southside Service Center located at 5841 Gulf Breeze Parkway.

To utilize the shelter, all pets must have proof of current vaccinations. The only pets allowed in the shelter are cats and dogs.

Upon arrival at the shelter pictures will be taken of pets with their owners. Pet owners must stay at the shelter, and will be responsible for caring for their pet and bringing a pet disaster kit.

Pet disaster kits should be prepared now, as there may not be time to do so when a disaster hits. The kit should include:

Carrier or cage of sufficient size for the pet to stand, stretch, and turn around, and room for food and water
Collar and leash
Any necessary medication(s)
Proof of vaccinations
A five day supply of food and water
Any special dietary requirements
Bowls for food and water
Cat litter pan, litter and litter scooper
Plastic bags

Residents using the pet friendly shelter during a disaster will also need to bring:

A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
Toiletries and personal items
Blankets or sleeping bags
Identification and any important papers
Games or toys for children
Special items for infants or elderly family members
Any special dietary needs and nonperishable foods or snacks
Battery operated radio, flashlights and plenty of spare batteries

The pet friendly shelter was developed by county staff because historical events have shown that citizens may refuse to evacuate from a disaster area when their pets cannot go with them.

Santa Rosa County recommends that pet owners plan for their evacuations and utilize other accommodations such as pet friendly hotels or staying with family or friends if possible. The pet friendly shelter space will be limited and should be a last resort for those who have no other place to go.

Currently, Santa Rosa County has approximately 25,794 households with pets.