Articles of Interest
view
more articles
Disaster Preparedness for Your Pets
 In the face
of a natural disaster, are you prepared to
safely evacuate and care for your pets? The
best way to protect your pets is to have a
plan for their safety in advance.
Have a Safe Place to Take
Your Pets
Plan ahead by finding a place
to take your pets as many disaster shelters
do not allow pets because of state health and
safety regulations. Keep a list of pet
friendly places with their day and after
hours phone numbers.
Build a Portable Pet
Disaster Supply Kit
Consider all of the essential
supplies that you'll need to care for your
pet and assemble them into a portable, easily
accessible kit. Be sure to include such items
as:
-
Food*,
potable water, bowls, can opener, spoon
-
Cat litter
and pan, small garbage bags, litter scoop
-
Medications*
and copies of medical records
-
Pet first aid
kit
-
Current
photos of your pet
-
A leash,
harness and/or sturdy carrier
-
Information
about your pets diet, feeding schedule,
medical conditions, behavior problems and
the name and number of your veterinarian in
case you have to foster or board your pets.
-
Pet beds and
toys, if easily transportable.
* ensure that
food and medication supplies are rotated
often to keep them fresh.
Steps to Take as Disaster
Approaches
At the first signs of
impending disaster (warnings, watches, etc),
act to protect your pet and begin executing
your disaster plan. This may involve:
-
Calling ahead
to confirm emergency shelter arrangements
for you and your pet
-
Double-check
that your pet's disaster supplies are
readily available and complete
-
Ensure that
all pets are wearing identification to
include the phone number and address of
your temporary shelter or a friend or
relative outside of the disaster area.
Planning ahead and being
prepared will ensure that you can evacuate
with your pets quickly and safely.
|
