Include Your Pet in Disaster Plans to Keep Them Safe
September is Disaster Preparedness Month. It’s critical that we get our animal family members ready for any disasters in addition to ourselves. Disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires can cause chaos and confusion in their wake. But, making preparations in advance for your pet can 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 include your pet in your disaster plan in this blog.
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.
If you are unable to bring your pet with you during an evacuation, it is imperative that they have a designated safe area. This might be a motel that allows pets, a boarding facility, or a friend’s or relative’s home. In case your pet becomes lost or hurt, make sure you have the phone number and other pertinent information for the local veterinarian clinic and animal shelters close at hand.
Furthermore, it is imperative 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 can 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.