Are you headed for disaster?
Having a disaster plan for your pet is essential

by Dr. Karen Halligan

Nobody likes to think about disasters, but if and when one happens, you need to be prepared - not only for yourself and your human family, but also for your pets. Pets are members of the family too, and rely on you to prepare and care for them in case of an emergency. You need to plan for evacuation and if you need to remain in your home.

Evacuating Your Home

When disaster strikes and you need to immediately leave your home, don’t forget your pets! Leaving them behind is unsafe and cruel.

Secure a safe place for your pets BEFORE an emergency :

Call hotels and motels outside your immediate area and ask about their policies on accepting pets during an emergency.
Keep a list of several pet-friendly places, their address and phone numbers.
Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter your pets in an emergency.
Ask friends and relatives outside the area if they could shelter your pets.
Call local animal shelters to see if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets in an emergency.

Assemble a portable pet disaster kit that includes :

All of your pets’ medical records, current photos and medications stored in a waterproof container.
A pet first aid kit.
Sturdy leashes, collars and transport carriers for all of your pets, and some extras to help rescue pets in need along the way.
Food, bowls, litter pans and can openers.
Written information on feeding schedules, medical problems, behavioral habits and the full information on your veterinarian.
Pets' toys and blankets.
A soft muzzle (for dogs).
An “Animals Evacuated” sign to hang on your way out of the house, so rescue workers know your animals are safe. To purchase yours, click here .

Be Prepared :

Make sure all of your pets have current ID tags.
Have extra cash placed safely away.
Know which radio stations to listen to if disaster strikes, and have fresh batteries in your radio.
Have phone numbers to local police and fire stations.
Maintain a near full tank of gas
Place an “Animals Inside” static sticker in your window to alert rescue teams that pets are inside your home. To purchase yours, click here .

Remaining In Your Home - Creating safety in your home for your pets during an emergency:

Remember, even pets that appear calm startle easily in distress, so be careful that they don’t escape.
Again, make sure all pets have current ID tags on.
Move cages away from windows and objects that could fall on them
If confining your pets, make sure the room is pet-proofed (i.e., no sharp objects, electrical cords, poisons) so they don’t harm themselves.
Move cages/beds away from windows and objects that could fall on them.
Have a written plan and distribute several copies of it so everyone knows what to do and you don’t forget anything.
Go over your disaster plan with all the family members and make sure everyone knows where the disaster kit is located, etc.
Call ahead to your veterinarian and make sure you have enough of any medications your pet is currently taking.

Stock up on essentials - Have a two week supply of the following for your pets :

Drinking Water
Pets' Food
Any medication the pet is on
Litter

Being prepared for a disaster can save your pets' lives. Take the time NOW to be prepared in case disaster strikes. Planning ahead of time will greatly minimize an already immensely stressful situation. And remember animals will panic during highly unfamiliar situations so try to stay calm and go slow with your pets. Hopefully you will never have to use your plan but it’s best to be prepared!

Side Tip : Carry an “In case of Emergency” card in your wallet that tells who to call in case you are injured, and to notify your emergency contact to care for your pets.