12 COMMUNITY ANIMAL WELFARE FOOTPRINTS
>>> Contingency planning: A guide to good practice
Other considerations
Floodwater
Flooding has become a common issue in contingency
planning, as it has become an increasingly common reality.
Floodwater can be contaminated, or there could be concealed
hazards, for example sharp objects below the waterline.
Floodwater can become very deep without warning. It will
not always be possible for people who decide to exercise their
animals to identify risks in the water, or to appreciate the
potential disease which may injure people and pets or make
them ill if they ingest the water. Advice given to residents
during a flood should consider ways in which potential hazards
could be avoided.
The RSPCA advises that people should not ever let their
animals (whether pets or livestock) drink from floodwater. If
their animals accidentally ingest such water, they should be
monitored and veterinary assistance be sought if they start
to show signs of illness. When people need to exercise their
animals they should do so away from flooded areas.
Recovery
Following the emergency situation the process of recovery
begins. Some residents will be able to return to their homes
immediately whilst others will need to be housed in temporary
accommodation. This is likely to be stressful for people and
their pets, so it is worthwhile identifying temporary
accommodation that will allow pets. Some local authorities
have arrangements in place with bed and breakfast providers,
hotels and local landlords who will allow people to continue to
live with their pets during the recovery stage. It is important
that, as far as possible, people can remain with their pets
during this period.
Assistance dogs
Some people evacuated may need their assistance dog with
them at all times. This should be considered when planning
potential rest centres.
Individuals taken into care or hospitalised
The local authority is responsible for the temporary protection
of all property, including pets, of any individual taken into
hospital or care
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. The legislation provides local authorities
with the facility to seek reimbursement from the owner for
any reasonable costs incurred.
A CONTINGENCY PLANNING POLICY
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National Assistance Act 1948 (s48)
Joe Murphy/RSPCA Photolibrary; RSPCA