When a disaster like a hurricane or wildfire looms, our first thoughts are often for the well-being of people. However, pets are even more vulnerable. They depend completely on us. The best thing you can do for your pet is simple: have a plan in place beforehand and follow these 8 CRITICAL steps outlined below.
We all know it’s important to include pets in a family emergency plan, but how prepared are we to address their special needs? Advance planning will give you and your pets the best chance to stay together and stay safe in an emergency.
There are people who won’t evacuate if it would mean abandoning a pet. People have been known to return home before it’s safe if a pet was left behind. The solution is simple:
Take your pets with you.Don’t leave your pets behind. The Good Lord’s judgment aside, it’s against man’s law, too. People go to jail for abandoning their pets and the hammer comes down hard during horrific natural disasters that garner national attention.
We have assembled the best and easiest tips to help you evacuate with your pets safely. You’ll find everything you need to know in the videos we’ve assembled below. Let them play one by one. We know your time is valuable so we have selected these videos wisely.
Please note: Most emergency shelters do allow pets contrary to rumors. Do NOT leave your pets behind. Take them with you when you evacuate. Things can be sorted out AFTER you and your furbabies are safe. As the pet/people health link becomes better understood, shelter policies can and will change.
When it comes to supplies, there are several key things to have ready:
1.) The first is a week’s supply of dry and canned food plus at least a week’s supply of water. Don’t forget bowls to serve it in!
2.) Second, try to have at least a two week supply of any medications and a first aid kit including flea or tick prevention if appropriate.
3.) Have paper towels, newspaper, and disinfectant. Cats will need litter and litter box (a cardboard box and plastic bag will do in a pinch.)
4.) Bring documents! This includes ownership, veterinary records, medication instructions, a photo of the pet (preferably with you), and an emergency contact list including the veterinarian.
Note: #4 is incredibly important. Ensure you have all of the documentation you need to prove ownership of your pets. This includes chip information and printed photos if you have any. God forbid, if you are separated from your pet(s) or if they need emergency medical care, all this extra paperwork will expedite their safe return to you.
5.) Label the crate or carrier with contact information and make sure your pet is wearing ID (this is what gets people and their pets reunited).
6.) Bring something to comfort your pet during a frightening time. Consider bringing a blanket or familiar bedding and favorite toys.
7.) You should have a “safe haven” location figured out in advance and ensure pets are allowed. This could be a pet-friendly hotel or a friend or relative’s house in a safe location.
8.) There’s so much more you can do to ensure you and your pets get out safely and quickly, so please do yourself a favor. Watch the first video below. It’s critical and the very least you need to do if you want to ensure a smooth evacuation.
Watch and share this post with a friend regardless of where they may live because these tips are essential for anyone who loves and cherishes their pets as much as we do. If every pet owner learns these simple, pet preparedness tips you’re about to discover, there will be fewer tragedies and more happy pets.
