Be Ready For A Pet Emergency

vacation dogWe all in one way or another try to be prepared for emergencies even though we don’t know  what form an emergency will take.  It can be anything from an unforeseen illness, accident or natural disaster.   These plans should include our pets and we’ll try to cover some of the ways to do that.

We all in one way or another try to be prepared for emergencies even though we don’t know  what form an emergency will take.  It can be anything from an unforeseen illness, accident or natural disaster.   These plans should include our pets and we’ll try to cover some of the ways to do that.

In another section we covered your pet wallet and it’s contents.  Let’s take that wallet a few steps further to your home and some of the precautions that we can take.

A pet rescue alert sicker visibly posted for rescue workers will alert them to the number of pets in your home.  You can order one of these stickers on the ASPCA website at www.aspca.org for free!  If you have evacuated with your pets remember to take a moment to notate that on the sticker before you leave.  Once inside a rescue worker should easily be able to find contact information for your veterinarian and emergency caregivers.

In the event that you have evacuated with your pet/pets plan ahead.  It’s best to always try to take your pets with you in the event of an emergency because if it’s not safe for you it’s not safe for them.  Your veterinarian most likely has a list of preferred boarding facilities or your local animal shelter may provide emergency shelter for pets.  If you’re going to travel out of town with your pets during the emergency you have probably thought ahead to locations.  Plan one step further and find hotels that are pet friendly.  You might also consider asking friends or relatives outside you’re area if they may be willing to take your pets in case of an emergency.

You’ve probably given some thought to a list of things that you and your family will need to take with you from your home in the event of an emergency.  Here’s a list of things for your pet/pets:

  1. First-aid kit.  Ask your vet what should be included.
  2. Canned and dry food.  Make sure the cans are pop tops and that you have enough for several days.
  3. Pet food dishes
  4. Cat liter
  5. Doggie bags
  6. Copies of pertinent medical records and medications
  7. Crates/carriers
  8. Pet photos in case you become separated

This list should be used as suggestions to staple items you will need for your pets.  You can probably think of things not included that are specific to your pets.

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