Flood-damaged homes pose significant health risks to pets, including exposure to contaminated floodwater, mold growth, displaced wildlife, and structural hazards, and veterinarians and restoration professionals are offering guidance for safe return with animals.
Floodwater can contain bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxic chemicals that can cause serious illness in pets. Pets that wade through or drink floodwater are at risk of gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and other health problems.
Mold that develops in flood-damaged homes is a particular concern for pets, which spend more time at floor level where mold concentrations are often highest. Pets should not be allowed to return to a flood-damaged home until mold remediation is complete and post-remediation testing confirms that mold levels are acceptable.
Flood events can also displace wildlife including snakes, rodents, and insects, which may seek shelter in flood-damaged structures. Pet owners should be aware of this risk and take precautions to protect their animals from encounters with displaced wildlife.
Restoration professionals who provide clients with comprehensive guidance on pet safety in flood-damaged homes demonstrate a level of care and expertise that can differentiate them from competitors and build long-term client relationships.
