Media coverage of tornadoes in the Midwest and the start of tropical storm season have many people re-evaluating their emergency survival kits.
We generally have a good idea of what to do for the people in our households, but what about your pets? Animals can be strongly affected by a natural disaster, and should be included in any emergency planning.
Here are five tips to help prepare your pets for an emergency, courtesy of The National Preparedness Community.
Identify a Shelter
Prior to a natural disaster striking, it is best to contact your local office of emergency management to see whether you will be able to evacuate with your pets. You should ask whether there will be shelters that accept both pets and owners. In the event you have to place pets at a kennel or animal shelter, make sure you have a copy of their up to date medical records to give to staff members.
In addition, it is smart to find a pet-friendly safe place for your family and pets. Websites such as Pet Friendly Hotels and PetsWelcome.com help people find pet friendly lodgings. Major hotel chains will also list locations that are pet friendly along with ones that are not.
If all else fails, ask a family member or friend if they have enough room for your family to stay, pets and all.
Prepare a Pet Kit
Just like you would for a human, prepare an emergency kit that can be taken on a whims notice. This can include pet food, bottled water, pet medications, veterinary records, cat litter and a pan, a manual can opener, food dishes, and a pet first aid kit. Think of any other supplies you might need with you in case you are not able to retrieve them later.
Update Your Pet’s ID
It is very important to make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date and securely fastened to their collar. If possible, attaching the name and phone number of your evacuation site is a good idea in the event you are separated from your pet during a disaster. Many people have also had micro chips embedded under the skin of their pets. This method has been proven safe, and can be very helpful when trying to locate a missing pet.
The ASPCA recommends getting a pet sticker to put on your window to alert any rescuers that there are pets in your home.
Protect Your Pet During a Natural Disaster
To prevent pets from running away, bring them inside at the first warning of severe weather. Don’t be alarmed if normally calm pets start acting irregularly once the storm has moved closer. If your pet is prone to anxiety, speak with your vet in advance about obtaining medication to calm them down.
Keep an Eye on Your Pet After An Emergency
You will need to watch your pets closely, keeping dogs on a leash and in a fenced yard with access to shelter and water. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and your pet may become confused and lost.
Your pets’ behavior may also change after an emergency. Normally quiet and friendly pets may become aggressive or defensive. Remember that you’ll need to keep taking care of your pets even after the disaster. If your home is damaged and you feel unsettled, so will they.
Sources: propertycasualty360.com “The 5 rules for keeping pets safe in a natural disaster“, fema.gov “National Preparedness Community“
