Include Your Pet in Your Emergency Plan to Keep Them Safe During A Disaster

This September, as Disaster Preparedness Month draws near, it’s critical that we get our animal family members ready for any calamities in addition to ourselves. Disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires may cause chaos and uncertainty in their wake. But, making preparations in advance for your pet may really make a big impact. It is our duty as veterinarians and animal clinics to inform pet owners about the value of preparing their animals for disasters. We’ll look at how to incorporate your pet in your disaster plan in this blog.

The most important thing to remember is that your pet needs an emergency kit. This has to have food, water, medicine, a leash, a collar with tags for identification, and any other items your pet needs for comfort and health. In the event that you have to leave, having a carrier or container ready can also be useful.

Next, having a designated safe location for your pet is crucial if you cannot bring them during an evacuation. This could be a friend’s or family member’s house, a boarding facility, or a pet-friendly hotel. Make sure to have important contact information for this location readily available, as well as information for local animal shelters and veterinary hospitals in case your pet becomes lost or injured.

Furthermore, it is important to guarantee that the identity of your pet is current. This includes any information from their microchip and their collar tags. Pets can easily become separated from their owners in the turmoil of a crisis, but possessing current identification can help ensure their safe return home.

Lastly, it’s crucial to practice your emergency plan with your pet before a calamity strikes. This might involve practicing evacuation drills with your pet and introducing them to car journeys in their carrier or box to help them become accustomed to it.

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.