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Emergency and Disaster Preparedness for Your Pets
DON'T FORGET ABOUT US!
Over 80% of homes in the U.S. have a pet of some kind. Emergencies come in many different forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permenant evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. The best thing that you can do for yourself and your pet is to be prepared.
Pet owners must plan for their pets as they plan for themselves. There are many different ways to plan for the safety and comfort of your pet during these often chaotic and confusing times. Having a plan and supplies ready can help ease many of the fears and anxieties that your pets may experience during an emergency.
Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.
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We Are Counting On You.......
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STEP 1 - Arrange a Safe Haven
Pre-arrange a safe-haven location for your pets prior to an emergency. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND.
Not all Red Cross Shelters accept pets, so if your community has designated pet shelters or local veternarian offices, humane socities, or animal shelters contact them to determine a suitable a safe-haven location for your pet in the event of an emergency.
Ask friends or relativies outside of your immediate area if they would be willing to take care of your pet in the event of an emergency.
Check local hotels and motel outside of the immeidate area for their pet policies to know where you can relocate with your pet if necessary.
STEP 2 - Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits
Keep these supplies handy and up-to-date for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where to find the kit in case of an emergency. (This kit should be clearly labeled and keep next to the family emergency preparedness kit for quick accessibility)
Items to consider include:
* Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what this should contain)
* 3-7 days worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food
* Disposable littler trays (aluminum roasting pans are inexpensive and work
great)
* Litter or paper toweling
* Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
* Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
* Pet feeding dishes
* Extra harnesses and leash with name tags attached
* Medical/shot records and 2 week supply of medications (waterproof
container)
* Bottled water atleast 7 days supply for persons and pets
* Traveling bag, crate, or carrier for each pet
* Blankets, beds, comfort toys
* Recent photo of each pet (waterproof containers- zip lock bags)
* Flashlight
* Remember to change food and medicine out every 2 months to ensure freshness*
For more information on Emergency Pet Safety and Prepardness visit these websites:
RedCross.org
ASPCA.org
Ready.gov/Pets