The Humane Society of South Mississippi understands the importance of being prepared for any possible disaster. In addition to making preparations to ensure the safety of the animals housed at our facility, we want to make sure that the residents of Harrison County are prepared and know about opportunities available for shelter during hurricanes affecting the Gulf Coast.

The Humane Society of South Mississippi and the Emergency Management Agency have teamed up to provide a pet friendly evacuation shelter of last resort. We learned the hard way from Hurricane Katrina that preparations and assistance needed to be provided for pets and their owners. Several animals and their owners were put in harm’s way and even perished due to the lack of evacuation options for them and their pets.

The Humane Society of South Mississippi and the Emergency Management Agency have teamed up to provide a pet friendly evacuation shelter of last resort. This shelter will be located at Harrison Central High School. Residents will be requried to stay at the shelter and care for their animals. Owners should bring their animals in a crate/kennel and bring all supplies needed to care for their animals. To find out more and to register for shelter, please download and send in the Pet Shelter Agreement and Registration Form.

Coast Transit Authority will be providing transportation for residents of Harrison County and their pets to the Pet Evacuation Shelter. To register for pick up with CTA, call 228-896-8080. Please remember that this shelter should be considered a shelter of last resort and will be opening only 12 hours prior to the arrival of a storm.

For additional tips on how to prepare for evacuation with your pets click here for a printable PDF of the “Evacuate With Your Pets” brochure. We will not let the approach of another hurricane season and the threat of a storm turn into another tragedy.

For more information on disaster preparedness and a list of pet friendly hotels, please visit http://www.mbah.state.ms.us/

Beacause of the proximity of our shelter to the Gulf, the HSSM shelter will close and evacuate animals in preparation for storms. ANIMALS SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT TO THE HSSM SHELTER ON HIGHWAY 49 FOR SHELTER DURING A STORM. HSSM is in need of volunteers who are willing to assist during disaster operations. For more infomration on training and how you can help, contact the Human Resources Manager at 228-863-4394 x 115.

Create an Evacuation Pack for Your Pet

In the event of an emergency, it is important to keep your pets safe, and to have an emergency backpack or “Evac-Pack” with supplies for your pets ready in case you need to evacuate. Your Evac-Pack should be water resistant, easy to carry, and easy to locate on your way to the door.

Find a tote bag or backpack of your choice and include the following items in it:
Harness and Leashes: Harnesses and leashes are important for safety and security reasons. If you have cats do not forget to store litter and a portable litterbox.

Medications and Medical Records: Place a copy of medical records in the Evac-Pack, along with instructions for any medications your pet is currently taking. Place at least a 3 day supply of medicine in your Evac-Pack. Also include the name and address of your pet’s veterinarian in a plastic, airtight, water-resistant bag or container.

Current Photo and ID: Include a current photograph of each of your pets, a photograph of your pet and you together (this is a very important means of identifying yourself as the pet’s owner should you become separated), and a full description of your pet including any distinguishing marks. Keep items in an airtight, water-resistant bag such as a Ziploc or a similar container. Always have your pets wear a collar and ID tags. If you have not done so already, seriously consider having your pet microchipped, as this is a universally accepted way of proving ownership and a valuable way of reuniting pets and owners. The Humane Society of South Mississippi provides low cost microchipping at their facility—no appointment necessary.

Food and Water: Have enough food and water for each pet for at least 3 days as well as portable food and water bowls. Keep dry pet food in an air-tight and water-tight bag or container. It is a good idea to include any other important instructions or behavioral information about your pet.

Pet Beds and Toys: Pack your pet’s favorite toy, treats, and bed, if possible. These items will make your pet comfortable and help reduce stress.

First Aid Kit: You can buy a pre-made kit, available at a pet store or at hSSM, or make one of your own. Just ask your veterinarian what should be included in a first-aid kit.

Other Useful Items: You should include a roll of paper towels, soap, disinfectant and garbage bags for clean-up.