Flood warning! Your animals need your help!
Do you know what to do with your animals if it floods?
This handy guide will help you prepare in case of flooding, so in the event of a flood you can get your animals to safety more easily.
You can check for flood warnings at the Environment Agency website.
1. Think ahead – before it floods
Don’t wait for a disaster to decide what to do.
- Plan your escape route.
- Make sure you can be contacted in an emergency and keep phone numbers of people who can help you move your animals.
- Download the RSPCA flood advice poster on the right – it contains emergency telephone numbers you might need.
If you have pets
- Make sure you have suitable carriers for small animals.
- Keep a supply of food for evacuation.
If you have livestock or tethered horses
- Ensure any extra gates you need for emergency access are fitted and attach your details on field gates.
2. Act early
Floodwater rises rapidly so if there is a flood warning so don’t hope for the best, act early.
If you have pets
- Bring all small animals inside and, if possible, upstairs.
- Move food, bedding and fresh water somewhere dry.
- Keep favourite toys dry, these may comfort your pet if you have to take them somewhere else
- Put important documents such as microchip numbers, vets and vaccination details in a sealed bag, along with a photo of your pet in a sealed bag, in case your pet gets lost.
If you have livestock or tethered horses
- Animals will need to be moved to high ground early to avoid fast-rising floodwaters.
- Make sure you have emergency feed and fresh water supplies available.
3. If disaster strikes
Put your flood plan for your animals into action.
If you have pets
- Cats, rabbits and other small animals must be transported in suitable carriers, birds in a secure cage and dogs using sturdy leashes.
- Remember to take your animals’ food, water, bowls and bedding with you.
- If you have no choice but to leave your animals behind, leave them shut inside an upstairs room with ample supplies of food and water. Leave notices on the outside doors to say there are animals inside and contact the RSPCA or your local Flood Warden immediately.
If you have livestock or tethered horses
- If you haven’t already, move animals to high ground if the escape route is accessible.
- Make sure you have emergency feed and fresh water supplies available
Don’t put your own or another life in danger to attempt an animal rescue.
4. Stay Informed!
You can call Floodline - 0845 988 1188 - for information and flood warnings 24 hours a day, or visit:
www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood
In an emergency, contact us on our 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.