In the case that disaster strikes, what’s good for you is good for your pet. Follow these steps to make sure that you are prepared to take the right actions for your animals in the case of an emergency.
Don’t leave them behind. Plan options include:
- Create a buddy system in case you’re not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your animals.
- Identify shelters. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets.
- Find pet friendly hotels along your evacuation route and keep a list in your pet’s emergency kit.
- Locate boarding facilities or animal hospitals near your evacuation shelter.
- Consider an out-of-town friend or relative
- Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area where you may be seeking temporary shelter, in case your pet needs medical care. Add the contact information to your emergency kit.
- Have your pet micro-chipped and make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.
- Call your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get advice and information.
- If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Find out where pet boarding facilities are located.
- Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet’s medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.
- If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger!
Build a Kit. Include basic survival items to keep your pet happy and comfortable.
- Food. At least a three day supply in an airtight container.
- Water. At least three days of water specifically for your pets.
- Medicines and Medical Records.
- Important documents.
- First aid kit.
- Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash.
- Crate or pet carrier.
- Sanitation.
- A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership.
- Familiar Items. Toys, treats, bedding, etc.
For more information on Pet Preparedness during emergency situations, visit www.ready.gov/animals.
