|
|
| 1 | Items for you to research in your local geographic area regarding emergency care available for pets |
| 2 | Supplies to gather and keep on hand in case of an emergency for your pets |
| 3 | Lists of information to gather and maintain so that you may easily access it in the event of an emergency. |
Category # 1 - Information to Research and Gather
We recommend that you take this opportunity to research and gather the following information regarding potential places to shelter your pet in the event of an emergency situation:
- Contact local animal shelters to find out whether they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets in the event of an emergency. You want to specifically inquire as to what their current situation is with respect to the number of animals they are currently caring for. They may already be overburdened caring for the animals they have, and, as such, may not be a viable alternative to assist you in the event of an emergency. However, this is something you should know about either way.
- Contact your friends and relatives who live outside of your immediate area and ask them for an honest assessment as to whether they would be willing to shelter your pets. It is important to get an honest response so that you will know your realistic options.
- Contact hotels and motels that are outside your immediate area to find out their policies on accepting pets and whether they have restrictions on number, size, and species, etc. Ask if "no pet" policies could be waived in an emergency. Keep a list of "pet friendly" places, including phone numbers, with other disaster information and supplies. If you have notice of an impending disaster, call ahead for reservations.
Category # 2 – Supplies you should gather and have readily available in the event of an emergency
We recommend that you gather together the following supplies in an emergency supply kit so that they will be readily available.
- Gather all of your pets’ medications and medical records. Be certain to store these medications and medical records in a waterproof container. Be certain that you routinely verify that these medications and records are current as your pets’ records and medications may change.
- Include a first aid kit with your pet’s emergency supplies.
- Include in your emergency kit any necessary clothing or blankets (i.e. sweaters, coats, etc. for your pet, especially if you live in a cold climate) as you may need to transport your pet in the event of an evacuation.
- Include items in your emergency kit necessary for the transporting of your pet in the event of an evacuation such as carriers, leashes, harnesses, etc. This will also help to prevent your pets from escaping.
- Include food and water in your emergency kit along with any necessary items to access the food such as can openers and water bowls.
- Include beds and toys in your emergency kit if space permits.
- Include and maintain current photographs of your pets in case you become separated from your pets or they become lost.
Category # 3 - Information to Gather
We recommend that you gather all of the following unique information regarding your specific pet and place it in an area that is easily accessible so that you will be able to find it easily in an emergency. It would also be a good idea to make copies of this information and give a copy to your pet’s veterinarian, a friend and/or relative, your bank safe and any of the animal shelters in your area.
- Names and telephone numbers of your pet’s veterinarian.
- Special food needs and feeding schedules.
- Names, dosages, and schedules for medications for your pet.
- Names and telephone numbers of pet boarding facilities you want your pet to be boarded at in case you are separated from your pet in the event of an evacuation.
- Names of any medications that your pet is allergic to or has had an adverse reaction to.
- Descriptions of any behavioral issues your pet has.
- List of emergency telephone numbers to reach you in the event that you are separated from your pet.
