Animal Disaster Preparedness

Disasters aren’t limited to hurricanes and tornadoes. Disasters can also include fire, floods, blizzards, and any other sort of unexpected event that affects the lives of your families and pets. Your area may not be common to blizzards. Or, may not be common for tornadoes. Examine what types of disasters are most likely to occur in the area you live and go from there. This can help you prepare effectively.

Animal Emergency Kit for Disaster

The first item of discussion is usually an emergency supply kit. To be safe, create two kits. The first one should be a kit you carry with you at all times in your car. The second should be a larger kit that has enough to last your family a minimum of three (3) days.

For the larger kit, you need the following:

• At least three days worth of food in an airtight, waterproof container (three days for you and three for each pet)
• At least three days worth of water (both for you and for each pet)
• Any medication your pet is prescribed
• Vaccination records
• Cotton bandage rolls
• Bandage tape
• Antibiotic ointment
• Scissors
• Latex gloves
• Rubbing alcohol
• Leash/leashes
• An extra ID tag for each pet
• Crate if possible
• Kitty litter (if you have a cat)
• A photograph of each pet in case of emergency
• A pet first-aid kit

As far as the preparedness kit you keep in your car, you may want to make an identical kit to your ‘home kit.’ If you’re able to carry it around comfortably in your car, that can be helpful should you n eed it. If not, be certain to at least contain a sufficient amount of food, water, and medical supplies.

What if I Have to Evacuate?

If you have to evacuate, don’t leave your pets behind. They count on you to keep them safe. Call around to hotels that allow pets. Don’t forget to locate a veterinarian in the area you are evacuating to in case of emergency.

If you are unable to bring your pets, check into emergency pet services to see if there are any who are able to keep your pet(s) while you are waiting to return home.

Preparation is Critical

Ensuring you are prepared for the unexpected will reduce the amount of stress you feel if the time of disaster arrives. You’ll already have everything packed and ready to go for your loving companions.  Taking the time to create an effective plan, and even protecting your pet with a pet insurance plan can help.