From what I can remember of what happened in New Orleans, city shelters are places to keep away from, dog or no dog. However it is a very awkward thing to have pets in shelters.

Not all dogs and cats are friendly to strangers, others can be a downright menace. Add to that, them being in an unfamiliar situation surrounded by strangers, who are probably scared. I see the potential for some very nasty situations. I might add that not all strangers are friendly to dogs either.

Lets face it, very few people take the time to train their dogs, let alone cats, and in the best circumstances they have a hard time controlling them.

Cages with cots next to them are the only options as far as I can see. Then you have the possibility of an owner letting the animal out and it going for a wander. Of course their darling would never hurt anyone!

In my opinion there are some very serious problems for the government to resolve before animals are allowed in shelters.

I think I would just make up a BOB for my shepherd and Bug Out!

I would rather shelter in a friend's house any day than a shelter, if you have a pet I recomend you make friends in other states who you can stay with in an emergency. It is a good thing to add to your preparedness list FRIENDS IN OTHER STATES <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />




As far as things I would include:

Water would be good, also any meds that the pets may be on; our pets aren't as healthy as they used to be (must be not enough raw rabbits!)

Also booties for their feet, if you have to hoof it over rough ground, most pets pads aren't conditioned to hard long treks.

Get a little back pack for you dog (they make them) and have it carry it's own stuff.

Treats would be a good thing, they are great for getting the little guys attention when needed and also for rewarding them when they are good.

Carry a dog wistle and train your pet to respond to it. You may need them to come to you fast and from a distance, sometimes your voice just doesn't do it.

Some kind of baton would be good too, or pepper spray, in case of other animals attacking your pet (it can happen).

It is important to include a favorite toy to keep them occupied and for them to vent their frustrations on.