Discussing How To Make An Evacuation Plan For Your Pets In Honor of National Disaster Preparedness Month
The month of September is widely observed as National Disaster Preparedness Month. National Disaster Preparedness Month serves as a reminder for families to plan for emergencies. While we often focus on safeguarding our homes and loved ones, it’s important not to forget our pets. Disasters can be unpredictable, and having a solid evacuation plan that includes your furry, feathered, or scaled family members is essential.
Here’s how you can create a comprehensive evacuation plan to keep your pets safe during a disaster.
Create an emergency kit for your pets
1. Create An Emergency Kit For Your Pet
Just like you prepare a go-bag for yourself, your pet needs one too. Some items to include are:
Food & Water:
A 3-7 day supply of pet food and bottled water.
Medications:
If your pet takes any medication, ensure you have enough to last at least a week.
Collar, Leash, And ID Tags:
Keep an extra set handy in case you need to evacuate quickly.
Pet Carrier:
Ensure you have a sturdy carrier for each pet, ideally one that your pet is already familiar with.
Waste Management Supplies:
Litter and a litter box for cats, poop bags for dogs, or cleaning supplies for small pets.
Comfort Items:
Include a favorite toy, blanket, or bed to help reduce your pet’s anxiety.
Pet-friendly hotel
2. Identify Pet-Friendly Shelters
Not all emergency shelters allow pets, so it’s essential to know your options ahead of time. Some steps to take include:
Research Pet-Friendly Hotels:
Make a list of hotels and motels that accept pets outside your immediate area. Keep this list with your emergency supplies.
Ask Friends Or Family:
If possible, arrange with friends or family outside the danger zone to temporarily house your pets in case of an evacuation.
Locate Animal Shelters:
Some shelters may offer temporary housing for pets during emergencies. Know where they are and how to contact them.
Emergency contact list
3. Prepare a List of Emergency Contacts
Have a list of emergency contacts readily available. This could include:
Your Veterinarian:
In case your pet needs medical attention during or after the disaster.
Local Animal Control:
For information on disaster protocols involving pets.
Pet Boarding Facilities Or Kennels:
Some may offer emergency boarding services.
Plan for all types of pets
4. Plan For All Types Of Pets
Every pet, whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, or reptile, requires specific planning. For example:
Birds:
Keep a travel cage handy and cover it with a sheet or towel to reduce stress.
Reptiles:
Have a portable heating pad or heat source and a secure travel enclosure.
Small Mammals:
Keep a safe cage or carrier that allows for comfortable movement.
5. Practice Your Plan
Practicing your evacuation plan ensures you’re prepared for an emergency. This involves:
Car Training:
If your pet isn’t used to car rides, take short trips to get them accustomed.
Evacuation Drills:
Practice evacuating with your pet to minimize panic and confusion.
Carrier Familiarity:
Let your pet spend time in their carrier regularly so they don’t associate it solely with stressful situations.
Keep your pet’s I.D. tags updated
6. Keep Your Pet’s Identification Updated
If you’re separated from your pet during a disaster, updated identification increases the chances of being reunited. Ensure your pet’s ID tag includes:
Your name and phone number.
Your vet’s contact information.
Consider microchipping your pet, which provides a permanent form of identification.
7. Stay Informed
Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts so you can act quickly if needed. Follow advice from authorities and have an evacuation route ready.
Make A Plan To Protect Your Pets
Emergencies can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ensure your pets are safe and secure. National Disaster Preparedness Month is the perfect time to update or create your evacuation plan. Don’t wait until the last minute—plan now to protect all the members of your family, including the ones with paws, wings, or fins!
For additional information regarding evacuation plans for pets, click here.
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Hire A Pet Sitter Today!
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