In Case Of Emergency - How To Prepare For An Emergency For Your Pets

It has been a number of years since the disaster, but the message still remains. Hurricane Katrina taught us all a lesson about how important it is to prepare for the worst case scenario with our pets.

When disaster strikes, you need to be able to jump into action and do what needs to be done for you, your family, and your pets. No longer are our pets thought of as household items that can take care of themselves. They need to be incorporated into our emergency action plans.

Prepare
Preparation is key. Before a hurricane or other emergency hits, make sure you and your pets are ready.

• Make sure your pets have proper identification just in case they get lost or if they have to be boarded. Microchips are ideal, but ID tags and collars work well in most cases as well. See this article for more information about microchipping and its advantages.
• Make sure you have your pet’s vaccine records and rabies tags on hand in case they need to be boarded or brought to a shelter. 
• Take a photo of your pet to keep with you just in case of separation. It will make finding and releasing your pet back to you easier. Hint: try to take the photo so it shows the size of your pet. Photograph your pet next to something where the size is easily identifiable. Make sure to have a hard copy of the photo since anything digital might not be accessible. 
• Make sure you have everything you will need for the approximate length of the emergency. If you are planning to have two weeks of food and water for yourself and your family, do the same for your pet. That includes food, water, treats, sanitary products (such as poop bags or cat litter) and medication.
• If you are not planning on leaving, make sure there is a safe place in your home to stay with your pets.
• Make sure you have pet carriers to transport your pets. Also make sure you have extra leashes and collars.
• Look for places that will allow your pets if you are planning on evacuating.
• Look for places to keep your pet if you cannot keep them with you. Animal shelters, kennels, and friends who live in other towns or states are all choices to look into.
• If you need to evacuate, do not leave your pets at home. If you are not safe in your home, neither are they.

During The Danger
Pack a kit to take with you so you are not scrambling at the last minute. The kit for your pet should include the following:

• Food and water bowls
• Food and water
• Treats
• A favorite toy for comfort
• A bed or pillow that will make them feel safe
• Harness, leash, and a carrier if needed.
• Any medications they are taking
• A photo and identification
• Emergency contact information such as vet’s office and poison control numbers
• Towels and basic first aid kit

Recover
Routines are very important to pets. A natural disaster or other emergency can cause your pets a lot of stress. it is very important to get back into the normal routine as soon as possible after the threat has passed. Always remember that pets count on their owners for food, shelter, and safety.