Cyclone alert

Cyclone alert - are you prepared?

Tropical Cyclone Debbie, the bureau expects it to cross the Queensland coast early Tuesday morning as a Category 4 system.

We are prepared and our Townsville and Mackay Animal Care Centres are now closed to the public in the interest of staff, public and animal safety and welfare.

The risk of storm surge in low lying areas is significant. Residents who have been directed to evacuate their home should ensure the welfare of their pets.  

If you are in an area which is subject to directed evacuations you should stay with family or friends who are not in the impact zones. 

If you do not have any family or friends outside of the impact zones, your local council has provided information on evacuation centres. This information is available on council websites.

Keep up to date with weather warnings in your area on the Bureau of Meteorology website. Visit www.bom.gov.au. For public safety warnings in your area visit your local Council website.

• Are you prepared? Visit www.getready.qld.gov.au
• For alerts in your area visit www.qldalert.com
• Prepare your pets. Visit Queensland Government

ENSURE YOUR PET HAS IDENTIFICATION

If your pet becomes lost in a storm, having appropriate ID can help them be reunited safely. Is your pet microchipped and has a collar with ID?

WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE OR FIND A PET

During flood and heavy rainfall, animals may become displaced or lost when homes, sheds and fences are damaged or destroyed. Lost animals should be returned to their home property or correct ownership as soon as possible and appropriate care and treatment for any disease or injury provided. 

• For lost and found companion animals, contact our RSPCA Qld Lost & Found team on 1300 363 736 and contact your local Council.
• For sick or injured animals contact your local veterinarian.
• For all other matters, contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

TIPS TO ENSURE YOUR PETS ARE SAFE

• Create a safe and secure space for all of your animals
• Don’t tether pets if outside - they may do themselves more harm trying to break free
• Provide access to water and food in heavy bowls if outdoors
• Keep your cats indoors
• Take time to prepare a Disaster Pet Preparedness Plan for you and your pet if you need to evacuate
• Ensure objects in your yard are tied down

WATCH FOR WILDLIFE

Call 1300 ANIMAL to report any sick or injured animals in need of assistance.

Be Prepared, Act Early, Be Considerate, Act Safe. More information and tips can be found here.

For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

Remember, if it's flooded, forget it!