Disaster Preparedness for Pets

by Linnea on 05/09/13

Here in the southwest springtime also means brush fires, which can easily turn into wildfires as we learned in 2011 with the Monument fire.  Wildfires are generally the only natural disasters we have to deal with here, but in other parts of the country you need to be prepared whether it's the possibility of earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, or tornados. No matter what kind of pets you have, it is smart to be prepared if you have to evacuate your area in case of an emergency.

In 2011, as the Monument fire became a wildfire, I prepared a 'go' back for myself and our dogs.  Even my turtle has a 'go' bin to safely transport him in a container of water.

Water, food, collapsible bowls, treats. (Photo from BeforeItsNews.com)

 

Here are some guidelines for preparing your pets for an emergency:

• Have a container of supplies in an easily accessible spot.  The container/bag needs to have some key items: Plan for a week's worth of food, food/water bowls - disposable containers or collapsible containers are best so they won't take up much room.  Extra leashes for dogs.  Copies of shot records in case you board/kennel your pets after you evacuate. Possibly some calming medications that could help alleviate stress and cortisol production.  I like holy basil and Rescue Remedy. Maybe some catnip toys for kitties.  For dogs, kong toys and bully sticks that can keep them occupied when you're holed up in a temporary spot like a hotel or again, possibly for boarding. Copies of medications your pet is on, in case you need a refill when away from home.

• Make sure microchip information is updated.  In stressful situations, many dogs will even flee from their owners.  If a local animal hospital is offering to board pets during emergencies, often times a dog or cat will get loose there and proper ID is crucial.

• Keep a good quality head-shot of your pet handy at all times.  What I mean is if you keep a flash drive with you, or a picture of your pet on your phone... In case they go missing during the commotion of evacuation, you can quickly make copies of a LOST poster.

• If time and space permits, bring your pet's carriers/crates with.  If you need to board them, chances are the local boarding facilities will be packed full but with enough help, they should be able to take more pets in if they have their own crate. Or if you can keep your pets with you at a hotel or a friend's house, their crate can keep them safe and confined if you need to leave the building temporarily.  This is why it is especially important for your dogs (and kitties too!) to be comfortable in their crate, it can act like a portable bedroom for them.

 

Rescue Remedy, great for calming animals!

In the mean time, check to see if the Red Cross is putting on any pet CPR classes, which can help you put together a first aid kit.  And if you do pack some kibble for your pets, change it out every 2 months or so and check expiration dates on canned food!