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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOR PETS
If you are like millions of animal owners nationwide, your pet is an
important member of your household. The likelihood that you and your
animals will survive an emergency such as a fire or flood, tornado or
terrorist attack depends largely on emergency planning done today.
Some
of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as
assembling an animal emergency supply kit and developing a pet care
buddy system, are the same for any emergency. Whether you decide to stay
put in an emergency or evacuate to a safer location, you will need to
make plans in advance for your pets. Keep in mind that what's best for
you is typically what's best for your animals.
If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if possible. However, if
you are going to a public shelter, it is important to understand that
animals may not be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter
alternatives that will work for both you and your pets.
Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can't care for your animals
yourself. Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives
to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets
if you are unable to do so. Be prepared to improvise and use what you
have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer.
Preparing for Your Pets Now Makes Sense.
How can pet owners prepare for emergencies?
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security consulted with a number of organizations experienced in animal health and well-being to develop Ready information for pet owners. These organizations include the American Kennel Club, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, American Veterinary Medical Association and Humane Society of the United States.
Pet owners should assemble an emergency supply kit that includes enough pet food and water for three days, medications and medical records, leashes, ID tags and other appropriate supplies. It is also recommended that pet owners have an emergency plan that considers their pets' needs and that they learn more about the types of emergencies that can happen in their area and the appropriate responses. Pet owners can download a free brochure from the Ready website at www.ready.gov or request a copy by calling 1-800-BE-READY.
A wide selection of pet survival kits and first aid items can be found in Sunset Survival's "Pet Survival" section.
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