Now that the hurricanes have passed, there will be many homeless dogs roaming the streets. Many of these dogs were abandoned when families evacuated, while others ran away from home as the storm rolled in. Regardless of how they found themselves homeless, and living on the streets, they'll be looking for people to give them homes. If you've become the caregiver of an abandoned dog, it's important that you take appropriate safety measures to protect yourself, and any other pets you may have at home. Dogs that have been on the street since the hurricane may have come in contact with contaminated water, and other hazardous conditions that could have exposed them to diseases. Here are some safety measures you should take now that you're caring for a homeless dog.

Create a Separate Area for Your Stray Friend

You want the dog that your caring for to be safe and comfortable. However, you need to protect yourself, and your other dogs from potential harm. The best way to do that is by creating a separate area for your stray. Bathrooms and laundry rooms are the best locations since they usually have tile or vinyl flooring, which is easier to keep clean. Lay papers on the floor for added protection. Be sure to keep your stray contained in that area for at least the first week.

Disinfect the Area Several Times a Day

While your stray is in isolation, be sure to sanitize the area several times a day. Toss the discarded newspaper in trash bags and place them in a trash can outside. Mop the floor with warm water and a sanitizing detergent. Be sure to keep the mop bucket away from your stray to prevent accidental ingestion. You should also use a spray sanitizing cleaner on all exposed surfaces that the dog might have come in contact with. While cleaning the isolation area, be sure to wear slip-on shoes. That will allow to cover your feet while you're cleaning, and then slip them off before you walk back into the main area of your home. You don't want to spread germs while you're walking through your house. Be sure to wash your hands with disinfectant soap after any contact with your stray dog.

Schedule an Appointment with a Veterinarian

If you're going to be caring for a dog that's been found alone after the hurricane, you'll need to schedule an appointment with a local veterinarian, such as at After Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic Inc. They'll be able to give it a checkup, and identify any health issues that it might be suffering from. They'll also be able to point you in the direction of an animal foster home should the challenge of caring for an abandoned dog become too much for you.