DISASTER PLANNING
If we have another Hurricane strike or other disaster, are you ready? As a pet owner, you need a plan that can save your pet's life. If you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacate them, too.
Leaving pets behind, even if you try to create a safe place for them, is likely to result in their loss, injury or death. So prepare now for the day when you and your pets may have to leave your home.
* Have a safe place to take your pets and assemble a portable pet disaster
supplies kit:
1. Each pet should have its own kennel/crate with a photo on the crate. On the bottom or back of the photo, write the pet's name, sex, and your name and phone number(s). The carrier should be large enough for the pet to
stand up and turn around in.
2. Each pet should have its own food/water dishes. Have their names written on the bottom of each bowl.
3. Have a file on each pet containing health history and vaccination dates
4. Have a leash and collar with all pertinent information on the tags readily available. Make sure the tag has the pet's name, rabies tag and contact phone number.
5. Have an ample supply of food and medicaiton for the pet with specific feeeding and medication instructions written out. If your pet tends to be anxiety ridden, ask your vet for a prescription of sedatives to carry in the pet's personal belongings bag.
6. Remember you can not predict mother nature. Pack enough supplies for an extended stay.
7. Locate the area evacuation shelters and pet friendly hotels in and around your state. A great source of information is the Web site http://www.petswelcome.com
8. During or after a natural disaster, a pet's behavior can temporarily change. Do not be alarmed if you find you have to use a muzzle and harness if your pet is in close contact with many other animals.
9. Pack your car with flashlights, batteries, trash bags, baby wipes, newspapers, and paper towels in case the pet gets sick or goes potty while in their crate.
10. There is always the possibility that you and your pets may become separated during a disaster situation. Familiarize yourself with the AKC Companion Animal Recovery Program (CAR). This program is dedicated to providing 24-hour recovery services for microchipped and tattooed pets that are enrolled in the CAR database . You can learn more about AKC's by clicking the following link: