Pet preparedness
How can pet owners prepare for emergencies?
Pets are part of the family, and they need to be included in your emergency plans. Unfortunately, when disasters happen and people have to leave home quickly, pets are sometimes left behind to survive on their own. This is dangerous for the animals and for other people.
If you own pets, it is up to you to plan ahead for them.
Emergency kits
Your furry and feathered friends need to have the basics of survival, like anyone else in your household. Create disaster supply kits for your pets. When gathering supplies for your pet’s kit, remember food and water, kennels and leashes, medications, and toys. Don’t forget hygiene and sanitation needs as well. Include pet waste bags, kitty litter, and a litter box as needed.
Evacuation and boarding
Leaving your pets at home alone when evacuating can place your animals in great danger. Practice your evacuation plans with your family and your pets. Teach your pets to be comfortable traveling inside their kennel or other animal carrier so they’re not stressed.
Also know that for health reasons, many evacuation centers do not allow pets or other animals. Do some research now to find pet-friendly shelters and hotels in your surrounding area.
Identification
Have records of pet ownership or adoption and vaccination records included in your important documents. Don’t forget contact information for your veterinarian.
Keep a selfie of you and your pet in your disaster supply kit to prove ownership. It’s also a good idea to have your pet microchipped. Keep tag and microchip information up to date.
Support network
What do you do if your neighborhood is evacuated and you’re not home? What about your pets? It’s important to have a good relationship with those who live around you. Make a plan with trusted neighbors, family, or friends to take care of your pets or to evacuate with them if you are unable to return home. Offer to do the same for their pets if they are in a similar situation.