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Pet Disaster Preparedness

3 min read

Dr. Nguyen, DVM:

Veterinarian, Dr. Lopez smiling with cat in her arms

"How Do I Keep My Pet Safe in an Emergency?"


Our furry friends are important members of our family. Having a pet preparedness plan in the event of a crisis or emergency is crucial to their well-being and safety. Here are some helpful tips to help you and your pets prepare for the unexpected:

 



Assemble An Emergency Kit for Your Pet

 

Here are some items that should be included in your pet emergency kit:

 

Documents

  • Copy of veterinary medical records (Rabies certificate, proof of vaccinations, medical summary, medical prescriptions)

  • Copy of registration or proof of ownership or adoption

  • Recent photo of each pet with description (name, age, sex, breed, color, weight)

  • Microchip information (including number and company information)


Water, Food, Medications

  • 1-2 week supply of food (check expiration) and water supply

  • Portable food and water bowls

  • Dish soap to clean food and water bowls

  • 2 week supply of necessary medications

  • 1 month supply of flea, tick, +/- heartworm prevention


Other Supplies

  • Extra collars with ID tags, harnesses, and leashes

  • Litter and disposable litter boxes for cats (aluminum pans, etc.)

  • Toys and comfort items

  • Pet carrier with bedding, blanket, or towel

  • Pet first-aid kit (more information below)

  • Cleaning supplies (paper towels, disinfectant, plastic bags)

  • Flashlight or headlamp

 

Access to a veterinary facility may not always be readily available during an emergency. A first-aid kit may be useful during a crisis until a veterinarian is able to take over. Your kit should contain:

  • Absorbent gauze pads

  • Self-adhering elastic wrap

  • Cotton balls or swabs

  • Antiseptic sprays and/or wipes

  • Instant cold pack

  • Disposable gloves

  • Scissors with blunt ends

  • Tweezers

  • Thermometer

  • Antibiotic ointment

  • Alcohol wipes

  • 3% hydrogen peroxide

  • Styptic powder

  • Saline eye solution

  • Artificial tear gel

  • Emergency blanket

  • Phone number, clinic name, and address of your veterinarian

  • List of local veterinary emergency clinics

 

Create a Plan

 

Having a plan in place will likely help to reduce stress and worry when needing to make a decision in the event of an emergency. Things to consider including in your plan:

  • Have an evacuation plan ready for your pet. Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before emergencies happen. Know which boarding facilities, animal shelters, or veterinary facilities can care for your animals in an emergency. Prepare a list with phone numbers.

  • Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, family, and friends to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.

  • Using a rescue sticker alert to let people know that pets are inside your home. If you have evacuated with your pets and time allows, write “EVACUATED” across the sticker so rescue workers do not waste time looking for them.

  • Make sure your pet has a secure collar and up-to-date ID tag with your pet’s name, your name and phone number, and any urgent medical conditions.

  • Make sure your pet is microchipped and that it is registered. Keep your contact information up-to-date, and include an emergency contact outside of your area.

  • Prepare your pet for travel in their crate or carrier. It is important that they are comfortable with the experience to prevent delay.

    • Try leaving the carrier out in places your pet frequently visits and leave it open.

    • Feed them treats near the carrier and while inside the carrier.

    • Add a favorite blanket or bed inside the carrier so it smells familiar.

    • Use calming synthetic pheromone sprays (Adaptil for dogs, Feliway for cats).

    • Make note of where your pets tend to hide so you can find them quickly.

 

Stay Alert and Informed

 

  • Pay attention to local alerts and warnings sent by local and state public safety officials.

  • Listen to local officials when told to evacuate or shelter in place.

  • Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service.

  • Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster.

 

By preparing for the worst, you can ensure that you and your pets stay safe during an emergency. Being proactive and taking these precautions will help reduce stress and increase the chances of a successful outcome for you and your pets.

 

References:


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