Disaster Preparedness Group
Pet Tips
1. Microchip your pets. Microchip identification (ID) is one of the best ways to ensure that you and your pet are reunited if you are separated. Be sure to keep the microchip registration up-to-date, and include at least one emergency number of a friend or relative who resides out of your immediate area.
2. Keep a collar and tag on all cats and dogs. Keep several current phone numbers on your animal’s ID tag. ID on indoor-only cats is especially important. If your home is damaged during a disaster, they could easily escape.
3. Plan a pet friendly place to stay. Search in advance for an out-of-area pet friendly hotel or boarding facility, or make a housing exchange agreement with an out-of-area friend or relative. Never leave your pet behind if you evacuate!
4. Use the buddy system. Exchange pet information, evacuation plans and house keys with a few trusted neighbors or nearby friends. If you’re caught outside the evacuation lines when an evacuation order is issued, your neighbors or friends can evacuate your pets for you.
5. Prepare and emergency kit for each animal. Stock up on items you may need during a disaster now so you do not get caught unprepared. Below are basic items you should include in your pets’ disaster kits. Store your diaster kit in an easy-to-grab container.
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one week supply of food.
- one week supply of fresh water.
- medication
- copies of vaccination records.
- photographs of you with your pet(s) to prove ownership.
- photographs of your pet(s) in case you need to make ‘lost pet’ fliers.
- pet first aid kit.
- temporary ID tags. Record your temporary contact information.
- carrier or leash for each animal.
6. Identify emergency veterinary facilities outside your immediate area. You can also check with your veterinarian to find out if they have an emergency plan that includes setting up in an alternate, emergency facility.
7. Plan for temporary confinement. Have a plan for keeping your animal safely confined. You may need a tie-out, crate or kennel.
8. Comfort your animals. Your animals will appreciate your calm presence and a soft, comforting voice if they are stressed. Some animals, especially cats, may be too scared to be comforted. Interact with them on their terms. Some animals may find toys, especially long-lasting chem toys, comforting.
9. Know where to search for lost animals. When animals become lost during a disaster, they often end up at a local shelter. Keep handy locations and phone numbers of the shelter in your area.
SVMHA 