Keeping pets safe after the flood Published July 6, 2011 By Capt. Morgan Mander Minot AFB veterinarian MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- As everyone adjusts to the new normal, it is important for Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen and their families to remember to keep their pet's health and safety in mind. Here are some tips to consider: Keep pets away from the water. Contaminated floodwater can pose many dangers to pets. Do not allow pets to drink or enter the floodwater. High levels of bacteria can be found in floodwaters. Drinking the infected water can cause gastrointestinal infections. In addition, many of these infections can then be spread from animals to humans. Floodwater also provides ideal conditions for the growth of other infectious agents. Fungus and molds, as well as disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes, can increase in flooded environments. Floodwaters may also contain toxic chemicals or heavy metals, such as lead. Floating hazards such as building materials, tree limbs and other debris can also cause injury. In addition, animals may also try to swim in the water and become exhausted and drown. If the pet does become wet or covered in mud, they should be washed with clean water as soon as possible. Also be sure to keep pets on a leash or in a carrier at all times while outside. Do not allow pets to roam loose. As familiar scents and landmarks disappear, pets can easily become lost or confused. Changes in their routine and to their surroundings can lead to stress and behavior changes. Pets may act aggressive or protective. Give them time to adjust to their surroundings. Be patient with pets as they express behavioral issues, and provide them with a safe, comfortable and quiet environment, which allows them to readjust. Additionally, use caution when returning home. Keep an eye out for items inside and outside the home that may injure or harm pets. Pets don't have protective shoes or clothing, so be aware that sharp or harmful objects can be hidden in the water or mud and may injure pets. Identify any hazardous materials, such as chemicals, which may have contaminated the area. Be aware of dangerous wildlife or other animals which may have found refuge in the home or on higher ground. Look around for downed power lines or other hazards and keep pets away. Also be sure to examine pets frequently and note any abnormalities. Contact a veterinarian if concerned about injury, illness or behavioral changes. Also contact a veterinarian for preventative health measures such as vaccinations and preventative medicine for fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites. By keeping control of pets and identifying hazards in the area, owners can keep pets safe and prevent injury and illness.