At the Ready: Disaster Preparation for Pets
Fires, earthquakes, and other natural disasters aren’t uncommon in California, and many of us have a plan in place for ourselves and our families. However, if you’re a pet owner, caring for your furry companion takes the emergency planning up a notch.
The team at Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital wants to make sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to make disaster preparation for pets a breeze!
Disaster Preparation for Pets
No matter how unlikely, being ready for an emergency or natural disaster is important, especially when pets are involved. Knowing you have what you need at the ready and making plans ahead of time will keep you calm – an absolute must during an emergency situation! Consider the following tips:
- Put together an emergency “pet supply kit” in a waterproof container that can easily be carried with you. Include a week’s worth of food and fresh water (make sure to change these out occasionally so they don’t go stale), extra leash/collar/harness, litter box/litter, extra medications, a recent photo of your pet, and a copy of your pet’s medical and vaccination records (put photo and paperwork in a sealed plastic bag).
- Consider adding a pet first aid kit to your supplies and download the free American Red Cross Pet First Aid App for helpful tips and videos.
- Make sure your pet is microchipped and is always wearing a collar with current ID tags.
- Order a free rescue alert sticker from the ASPCA and place it on or near your front door. This lets rescue workers know that pets may be trapped inside your home.
- If your home isn’t safe enough for your family to remain, it isn’t safe enough for your precious pet. Never leave your pet behind if you have to evacuate; similarly, don’t leave them outdoors during a weather emergency.
- Your pet’s safety may hinge on their ability to listen to your commands and get along with other people. If you haven’t made obedience training a priority, now is the time to do so.
- Most emergency shelters prohibit pets, so know your options for temporary housing. This may include asking for help from friends or family or researching pet-friendly hotels in your area.
- During an emergency, your pet may be exposed to a variety of pathogens from polluted water, debris, and exposure to other animals, so make sure they remain current on vaccinations and parasite prevention. Plus, emergency pet shelters and boarding facilities may not accept pets without proof of current vaccinations.
Our team is here to support you and your pet any way we can. If you have additional questions about disaster preparation for pets or would like to schedule an appointment for a wellness exam, please don’t hesitate to contact us.