(Richland PIO) – In an effort to assist Hurricane Florence evacuees with pets, Richland County Government will open a pet-friendly shelter to house the animals during the weather emergency.
The Richland County Emergency Pet Facility, located at 3216 Broad River Road, is scheduled to open at 5 p.m. today, Friday, Sept. 14. This pet-friendly shelter is for cats and dogs only. The site is across the street from the Widewater Shopping Center.
Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be on a leash. Owners must bring their animal’s vaccination records along with food and water.
Only pets up to date on their rabies vaccination will be accepted. Owners bringing their cats or dogs will need to bring the following:
- a carrier/crate
- food and water for several days
- food and water dishes
- leashes (owners are responsible for walking their pets)
- medications
- toys or other comfort care items
Owners will be expected to provide daily care for their animals during their stay at the shelter. Only one family member will be allowed in the facility. Pet owners must come in the morning and evening to clean cages and feed, water and exercise their pets.
Families should have emergency plans in place that include household pets. Your pet’s emergency supplies should include any required medications, comfort items, sanitation items such as litter boxes and litter for cats and plastic bags for waste clean-up.