Today I'm here to share some ideas and tips on how you can prepare for your pets in case of an emergency.
Here in California we tend to have earthquakes and in the moment one hits a lot goes through our minds, but our pets and their safety should be priority as well as everything else. It's scary for us when one happens and we have felt unprepared before. We know we wouldn't leave them behind, but we weren't prepared with the necessities they demand if an emergency was to happen. So it was time to get prepared.
Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, particularly food and water. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you and your pets will need to stay where you are. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away. Be sure to review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.
Here in California we tend to have earthquakes and in the moment one hits a lot goes through our minds, but our pets and their safety should be priority as well as everything else. It's scary for us when one happens and we have felt unprepared before. We know we wouldn't leave them behind, but we weren't prepared with the necessities they demand if an emergency was to happen. So it was time to get prepared.
Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, particularly food and water. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you and your pets will need to stay where you are. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away. Be sure to review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.
The kit should include food and water for at least three days for each pet, medicines, veterinary records, collar with ID tag, harness/leash and a pet first aid kit. You should also have a crate or other pet carrier and sanitary items such as litter/litter box, newspapers and paper towels.
In addition to an emergency kit, you should have a plan on how to evacuate with your pet(s). If you evacuate to a shelter, pets may not be allowed so it is a good idea to have a backup plan on where you will stay with your pet(s). Check with your vet to see if they offer pet sheltering in the event of an emergency. Plan with neighbors/family/friends that could care for your pet(s) during an emergency if you are unable to do so.
Finally, when you practice your evacuation drill with your family (twice a year is the recommendation), include your pet(s) in the process. Practice putting your pet(s) in the crate or carrier and loading the car with the pet and supplies.
Hope these tips help with keeping your pets safe during an emergency and better prepare you when an emergency pops up, because they do. And don't forget they're a part of your family and deserve the same courtesy.
Hope these tips help with keeping your pets safe during an emergency and better prepare you when an emergency pops up, because they do. And don't forget they're a part of your family and deserve the same courtesy.
No comments
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.