VB SPCA offers hurricane care for pets

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) - The Virginia Beach SPCA is offering to care for pets of first responders and residents who are under a mandatory hurricane evacuation order.

But the SPCA said Thursday that its shelter should be considered as a last resort. The group says the best thing pet owners can do is take their animals with them.

The SPCA will hold pets for 24 hours, unless it also is ordered to evacuate.

Pet owners must pick up their animals by 5 p.m. Sunday.

Pets must have identification tags and any required medication. Pet owners also should provide carriers, crates, leashes, shot records, food, litter and blankets.

Anyone who finds orphaned, injured or displaced wildlife following Hurricane Irene can contact the SPCA's Wildlife Referral Line at 263-4762.