Preparedness For Pets

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Have you accounted for Fido, or Lucy when emergency planning?

Pets are just as important as any family member to most people, so why would you not make them a part of your preparedness planning? There are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe as well during an emergency.

PET EMERGENCY KIT

Ready.gov/pets lists the below items as essential to building your Pet Emergency kit.

Food. At least a three-day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.

Water. At least three days of water specifically for your pets.

Medicines and medical records.

Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.

First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is a good idea, too.

Collar or harness with IT tag, rabies tag and a leash.

Crate or pet carrier. Have a sturdy, safe crate or carrier in case you need to evacuate. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation. Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach.

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 and allow others to assist you. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items. Familiar items, such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.

EVACUATIONS

While practicing fire escape or evacuation plans, be sure to include pets. If an evacuation happens, don't leave pets behind as they can be lost or injured.

IDENTIFICATION

Microchipping pets is a great way to locate them. Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanners that will read the microchip information to help find a pet's owners.

Be sure to take four-legged friends into consideration when planning for emergencies. Visit ready.gov/pets for further tips and safety precautions to think about for your pets during a disaster. 

After Hurricane Katrina, "It's estimated that over 15,500 animals were ultimately rescued. Of the 15,500 animals rescued, only 15% - 20% were ever reunited with their owners."*

*Source: Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, la-spca.org.