Disaster Preparedness for Pets

Disasters are unavoidable and, as such, the most we could do is to stay prepared for when disasters come. However, disaster preparedness is not just for humans as it must also include our furry friends. So what should a proper prepper do to be ready in case of emergencies? Here is a rundown:

• Make sure you have a Rescue Alert Sticker.

Check with your local Animal Welfare Office for a Rescue Alert Sticker that you can post on your wall. This should contain important information such as 1) the pets in your household, 2) your veterinarian, and 3) your contact details.

Having something like this will allow rescuers to take a look at your pets’ condition should you have to evacuate without them.

• Check for safe places where you can leave your pets in case of emergencies.

To make sure that you wouldn’t have to leave your pets behind in case of an evacuation, make sure you know a safe haven where you can leave your pets in case of an emergency. If you can’t find one near your area, ask your friends if you can leave your pets with them should the need arise.

The idea is to make sure that there is some place you can take your furry friends in the event of a disaster. Remember that in the same way that disasters are dangerous for humans, they are also dangerous for your pets—maybe even more so. Finding a place for them in advance is necessary since evacuation sites and hospitals often do not allow pets. Make sure that you have accommodation for your furry household members for the duration of evacuation.

• Prepare a Pet Emergency Preparedness Kit.

You should also keep essential pet supplies handy in the event of the emergency. Have everything assembled in an easily accessible place, preferably somewhere you can easily see and grab when evacuating the premises. Your Pet Emergency Preparedness Kit should contain the following:

• First Aid Kit. (Must include medicines, bandages, antiseptics, and the like.)
• Medical records, stored in a waterproof container. This is especially necessary if you have to leave your pet in a shelter or with a friend.
• Leashes, harnesses, or carriers that you can use to transport them. If you have to take your pet to a safer place, make sure that they wouldn’t be able to escape or run away.
• Recent photos of your pets (in case they get lost).
• Food, potable water, feeding bowls, manual can opener.
• Litter or paper toweling.
• Soap and disinfectant.
• For cats: make sure to bring a pillowcase, toys, and scoopable litter.
• For dogs: make sure to bring chew toys and at least a week’s worth of cage liner.

While animals can usually take care of themselves, those which are domesticated often forget a lot of their survival skills, which is highly disadvantageous for them in the event of an emergency. To keep your pets from danger, make sure to follow the reminders enumerated above.