When a disaster strikes, there is often little time to prepare our homes, families, and pets for the damage to come.
September is National Disaster Preparedness Month. This is a good time to identify what you would need in order to take care of your pet, should you have to evacuate your house in a hurry. Make a list of the items your pet could not live without, grab a large, preferably clear container, and get to work preparing an emergency kit for your furry child.
Here are some items you don’t want to forget:
- bottled water
- food (at least three days’ worth)
- bowls
- litter
- leash and/or crate
- required medications
- vet records including vaccinations
- current picture and/or description of your pet(s)
- veterinary first aid kit
- security items (bedding or toys to help ease stress)
As I try to imagine what it would be like at my house in the event of a flood, or a tornado, or another type of emergency, I picture my sweet dog, Summer, panicked and afraid. She tends to run away or hide in a corner when she is scared. It is a terrible mental image, but one that has driven me to keep a few more things in mind, to make sure I am completely prepared.
- ID your pet. Make sure your pet wears a collar with current ID tags at all times.
- Know your pet’s location. Does your pet have a favorite hiding spot when he/she is scared? Know where that spot is so you or a family member can retrieve your pet quickly should you need to leave in a hurry.
- Notify others that there is a pet or pets in your home.
Disasters are unpredictable and can cause serious damage to our homes and loved ones, including our pets. A disaster can happen to anyone at any time, so be sure to take caution and prepare.
