Emergency Preparedness for Pets

Emergencies happen all the time –- we hear about disasters on television, in the papers and on the Web. It’s hard to imagine what the victims are going through unless you have been there yourself. If not, it’s important to remember that it can happen to you. It can happen to any of us, and it can endanger our pets. Taking the time to prepare now will make all the difference later. You can save your pet’s life by making some general plans in advance.

Identification
Be sure your pet always wears current identification. In a sudden emergency, you may not be able to locate her collar if it is not on her. Microchip your pet and keep an ID tag on her collar.

Evacuation
If you need to evacuate an area, take your pet with you. Remember, if it is dangerous for you, then it is dangerous for your pet. Never leave a pet behind in a cage or tied up. If possible, you should evacuate before it is mandatory. This will allow extra time to get to a safe place where pets are permitted. If you are not evacuating, have a plan to gather in the safest area of the house. Have your pet on a leash or in a carrier until it is safe to roam the house.

Shelter
Once you have evacuated, you need to know where to go. Emergency shelters typically do not allow pets unless they are service animals. Spend some time calling hotels and ask about their pet policies in event of an emergency. Check with nearby hotels as well as those further away. You don’t know now how far you’ll have to go in a disaster. Have a list of veterinary offices and boarding facilities in surrounding areas just in case your pet cannot stay with you.

Home Alone
Be ready for emergencies that could occur when you are not at home. Place a sign or sticker near all outside doors that states the number of pets you have, the type of pets, and where you or your veterinarian can be reached. These stickers are often available through your veterinarian’s office. This will help in the event someone must rescue your pets. Ask a trustworthy neighbor to check on your pets in case of an emergency.

Disaster Kits
Prepare a disaster kit now. Keep it near an exit of your home for easy reach in case of an emergency. This is one of the most important preparatory measures you can take. Your disaster kit should include the following:

• A week’s supply of bottled water, food and medication for you and each pet

• A leash and/or carrier for each pet, extra leashes if possible

• Veterinary records

• First Aid supplies

• Phone numbers of veterinarians, family, friends, hotels and boarding facilities

• Current photos of each pet in the event you become separated from your pet

• Pet beds and toys

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• Blankets and towels

• Other personal and pet items you think you might need

Remember to check the kit every few months and replace old or expired items.

If you are ready for an emergency in advance, you can rest assured that you have done the best for you and your pet to ease the stress of disaster situations. Emergency preparedness can save your pet’s life, so it’s worth the extra time now.