The St. Croix Animal Welfare Center (AWC) encourages you not to forget your pets when preparing for potential disasters. All dogs on St. Croix are required by law to be licensed with AWC. The cost is only $5.
Owners can also microchip their pets for $25 for added security.
Pets should be brought inside or in an enclosed area for their own safety. Call 778-1650 or 778-1651 to reach AWC animal control or to report a missing or found pet. For an animal abuse or dog bite emergency call 911 and then call AWC.Please see the following tips from the Humane Society of the United States for pet preparedness.
Pet owners can reduce their animals’ chances of being at risk during a disaster by following the suggestions below.
- Put a collar with visible identification on your pets, including indoor-only pets.
- Keep pictures of your pets on hand for identification purposes.
- Create a pet emergency kit (see below) and refresh the items every few months.
- Talk to your neighbors about how they can help your pets if you are not at home when disaster strikes.
- Pet emergency kits should include:
- Three-or-more-day supply of food in airtight, waterproof containers, and drinking water.
- Bowls for food and water.
- Current photos and physical description of your pets, including details on markings.
- Medications, vaccination records and first aid pet supplies.
- Comfort items such as a toy and blanket.
- Small garbage bags.
- For dogs include: leash, harness and a sturdy carrier large enough to use as a sleeping area.
- For cats include: litter and litter box and a sturdy carrier large enough for transport and for your cat to use as a temporary “apartment” for several days.
My daugher Laura recently moved to St Croix and is volunteering at your facility along with her boyfriend Travis. She has always had a love for animals. Nice to see she’s found an outlet to express that love without having to be the pet owner. Best wishes to your organization.