Emergencies can come in any form; from natural calamities to the house getting caught on fire and, preparation is always better than a cure. And oftentimes, we are prepared but are we prepared enough to save our scared pets when the disaster hits? On this “National Pet Preparedness Month” let’s look at some of the ways in which we can keep your pet comfortable and safe!
Be ready with a plan!
When an announcement for natural calamities is advertised be ready with a proper plan to safeguard your dog. The first step would be familiarizing with the type of disaster. The next step is to make sure your pet wears their collars with updated contact information in case they get separated in the chaos. A microchip is one of the best options at such times.
Purchase a carrier and make sure all the contact information is written on it as well. It will come in handy. Keep the leash near the exit and make sure you have the proper equipment for your pets to ride in the car. In case you cannot access your vehicle; make sure to call your local government to learn about transportation during an emergency.
At home!
If you are staying home during an emergency make sure the room your pet stays is pet-friendly. A room with no windows would be great as it would muffle out the noise from the surrounding. Also, make sure to remove any item that can harm your pet.
During an evacuation!
In case of high alert warnings/evacuation make sure where you and your pets will go as most of the human shelters during emergencies do not allow pets. Make sure to contact your local emergency management office and ask if they office any accommodation for owners and pet. Another way to make sure you have accommodation after evacuation is to reach out to local vet clinics and shelter houses. In case nothing works you can always check with family and friends outside the evacuation area to host you until all the rush dies down.
Prepare a disaster kit
Like first aid kits for us humans a disaster kit will be helpful during emergencies. Take the help of the vet in putting the kit together. Some of the things that you can include inside the kit include Leash, collar with ID, harness, appropriate-sized pet carriers with bedding and toys, food (in airtight waterproof containers or cans) and water, food, and water bowls and a manual can opener, plastic bags for dog poop, cleaning supplies for accidents (paper towels, plastic bags, disinfectant), Medications for at least 2 weeks, flea and tick medication and heartworm preventative for 1 month and appropriate documents (referred from www.cdc.gov)
How to protect yourself and your pet during an emergency?
During emergency diseases can spread between animals and humans like rabies, ringworm, etc. They can spread through mosquitoes, fleas or ticks and it is important to know practical skills and precautions to keep yourself and your pets during these emergencies.
Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling your pets either to pet them, feed them, or to clean their waste. Don’t encourage your pet to lick you and keep them up to date on vaccinations. Do not let them interact with stray animals and keep their cage and bedding clean all the time; disinfect them regularly to avoid any infection or spreading of micro-organisms. Finally, make sure they don’t eat or drink any contaminated food or water.
In case you get separated from your pet: Print missing pet hand-outs and hand them out or post them. You can also call local animal control about your missing pet or if a micro-chip is inserted call the microchip company.
That said, it’s always better to prevent than regret after an emergency. With Pet Monitor, protect your pets from scorching summer and shivering winter. Every life is precious.
