Preparing For Disaster: Ways to Include Your Pet in Your Disaster Plan
With Disaster Preparedness Month just around the corner in September, it’s a great time to think about getting ready for potential disasters. We shouldn’t only prepare ourselves but also our beloved pets. When disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires happen, things can get really chaotic and confusing. But having a plan ready for your pet before it all happens can be a real lifesaver.
As veterinarians and animal hospitals, it’s our duty to teach pet owners why it’s crucial to be prepared for disasters when you have pets. In this blog, we’ll dive into how you can include your pet in your disaster plan, so you’re all set when emergencies strike.
First and foremost, having an emergency kit for your pet is crucial. This should include food, water, medications, a leash, a collar with identification tags, and other necessary supplies for your pet’s health and comfort. Having a crate or carrier ready may also be helpful if you need to evacuate.
Another important step is to pick a safe place for your pet if you can’t take them with you when you have to leave your home during an emergency. This safe place could be a friend’s or family member’s house, a special place for pets called a boarding facility, or a hotel that welcomes pets. It’s essential to have all the important contact details for this place ready. Also, keep info for nearby animal shelters and animal hospitals in case your pet gets lost or hurt. Being prepared with these contacts can help a lot during tough times.
In addition, it is crucial to ensure that your pet’s identification is up-to-date. This includes their collar tags as well as any microchip information. In the chaos of a disaster, pets can quickly become separated from their owners, but having updated identification can aid in their safe return home.
Lastly, don’t forget to practice your Disaster Plan with your pet before an actual disaster happens. This means doing things like taking your pet for car rides with their crate or carrier so they get used to it. You can also practice evacuation drills with them, so they know what to do if you ever have to leave quickly. Practice makes everyone more prepared and less scared during tough times.
In honor of Disaster Preparedness Month, we encourage you to take the necessary steps to include your pet in your Disaster Plan. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us for further guidance and assistance in keeping your pet safe.