05/07/2024
Tomorrow, May 8th, is National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day and we would like to remind owners to include their pets in their disaster preparedness plans.
Things to remember:
NEVER leave your pet behind or stranded in a hazardous situation.
Always make sure your pet’s microchipping records are up to date.
Plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
Add an Alternate Contact (who is out-of-state) to your pet’s record in the event you and your pet are separated, and you become unable to be reached because phone lines are down.
Arrange a safe room at home for your pets that is clear of hazards such as tools, debris or toxic products.
Create a checklist.
Build a kit:
Several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
A water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
An extra supply of the medicine your pet takes in a waterproof container.
A leash, backup leash, collar, updated ID and rabies tag.
Copies of your pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
Traveling bag, crate, or sturdy carrier for each pet.
Grooming items such as pet shampoo and other items.
Pet litter and litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs.
A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a photo will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet.
Familiar items. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.
Evacuation:
If local officials ask you to evacuate, that means your pet should evacuate too. If you leave your pets behind, they may end up lost, injured or worse.
If you evacuate your home, take your pet’s supplies with you.
Practice evacuating in the car with your animals, so they’re more comfortable if you need to evacuate.
Get your pets familiar with their carriers before severe weather hits in case you need to evacuate.
Shelter:
Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen.
Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster.
Identify pet shelters before the next emergency.
List the address and number of all the places you can take your pet in an emergency.
Geographic Considerations: If you live in an area that is prone to certain natural disasters, such as tornadoes, earthquakes or floods, you should plan accordingly and always evacuate early.
Determine well in advance which rooms offer safe havens. These rooms should be clear or hazards such as windows, flying debris, etc.
Choose easy-to-clean areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms and basements as safe zones
Access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises.
In the event of flooding, go to the highest location in your home, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter.
Stay informed:
Pay attention to wireless emergency alerts for local alerts and warnings sent by state and local public safety officials.
Listen to local officials when told to evacuate or shelter in place.
Download the FEMA app or get weather alerts from the National Weather Service
