Disaster Preparedness for Pets

  When preparing for a disaster, the safety of a pet should never be overlooked. However, some loners or families can easily make this mistake by not placing enough care in the treatment of a dog, cat, bird or whatever animal they have living amongst them. Some people fail to formulate a plan that can properly accommodate the safety and supplements for their pets during a disaster while others don't even value their pets as much as their families and/or property and forget to include the little guys into their planning. Perhaps you are neither and have already secured a disaster preparedness plan for your pet already. However, if you think your plan isn't up to snuff or you just don't know where to start, this article will educate you with some simple to follow tips for the sake of your furry/feathery/scaly little friend.

When preparing for a disaster, the safety of a pet should never be overlooked. However, some loners or families can easily make this mistake by not placing enough care in the treatment of a dog, cat, bird or whatever animal they have living amongst them. Some people fail to formulate a plan that can properly accommodate the safety and supplements for their pets during a disaster while others don't even value their pets as much as their families and/or property and forget to include the little guys into their planning. Perhaps you are neither and have already secured a disaster preparedness plan for your pet already. However, if you think your plan isn't up to snuff or you just don't know where to start, this article will educate you with some simple to follow tips for the sake of your furry/feathery/scaly little friend.



1. Tag And Microchip Your Pets



It is considered mandatory to have your pets wear some form of ID especially during a disaster season. Have your pet wear collars with tag complete with the proper information (owner's name, address, phone number). This way, if your pet becomes lost after a disaster, any Samaritan who discovers his/her afterward will know who to return the pet to. As an added precaution, you can have your pet 'microchipped' so that you or animal control can track down the little rascal for a happy reunion. Never chase after your escaped pet in the middle of a disaster.



2. Plan A Pet-Friendly Shelter



Chances are your disaster preparedness plan includes a public shelter for you and your loved ones to stay at in case your home isn't fortified enough for your liking. But can that shelter accommodate for your pet? During a disaster, it is best to find a shelter that can double as an animal shelter or a standalone animal shelter for your pet can stay in case of an emergency beforehand. If neither seems obtainable, find someone you trust who can provide such a place for your pet. Never leave your pet alone at home if you plan to stay at an alternate shelter.



3. Prepare An Emergency Kit Specifically For Your Pet



One of the essential things you must have on hand during a disaster is an emergency kit and the same applies to your pet. While stocking up on supplies for you and your family make sure you do the same for your pet and that it is loaded with essentials for him/her. That includes a week's supply of non-perishables, fresh water, medication, trash bags, etc. Store these items in durable containers and label them.



Secure Your Pet During A Disaster



It's wise to keep your pets indoors as part of a disaster preparedness plan, but that isn't enough to keep them safe. Pets can be frightened during a storm and will run for the nearest cover that might inadvertently prove dangerous. Block any holes or spaces they might be small enough to fit through and keep them in kennels or on a leash to control them.

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