After the Storm - Pet Safety & Wild Animals

• After the incident has subsided, be careful allowing pets outside. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets can become confused or lost.

• Downed power lines, high water, debris, disturbed wildlife, and many other factors can present dangers outside the norm.

• Do not allow pets to consume food or water that may have become contaminated.

• Wild animals will flee flooded areas to seek high ground. This may put them into close contact with people and pets. Pay close attention to where you and your pets are walking.

• Flooded areas can provide additional pathways for alligators to gain access to residential areas, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. To report a nuisance gator, call the toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at (866) FWC-GATOR. In just plain numbers, that is 866-392-4286. Generally, an alligator may be deemed a nuisance if it is at least 4 feet in length and is a threat to people, pets or property.