Pet Preparedness Tips!

Emergencies come in many forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permanent evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe, so the best thing you can do for yourself and your pet is to be prepared. June is National Pet Preparedness Month and it’s the perfect time to make sure that pets have an emergency plan and an emergency kit, just like families. Disaster plans aren’t only essential for the safety of pets. If you’re responsible for other kinds of animals during natural disasters, disaster plans for horses and animals on farms can be lifesavers.

 

Include your pets in your emergency plans

• Make sure your pet(s) wear collars and tags with up-to-date contact information and other identification.
• Microchip your pet(s)
• Keep a sticker on your home’s windows and doors to tell emergency workers or neighbors if there are pets inside.

Build an emergency kit for your pets

• Keep your pet’s essential supplies in sturdy containers that can be easily accessed and carried
• Some items that you can keep in a toolkit include: first aid supplies, a leash and/or carrier, your pet’s medical records, and food and water.

Keep digital pictures of your pet(s)

• Pictures will help to identify your pet after a disaster in case you become separated

Create a list of places that accept pets in an emergency  

• Research hotels and motels outside your local area that allow for pets, ask any nearby family members if they are able to help board a pet, or ask your local shelter if they can help foster your pet in case of an emergency

Helpful links

• Ready.gov
• ASPCA
• American Humane Association
• American Red Cross

Information provided on behalf of Antonia Williams, Emergency Preparedness Training & Exercise Coordinator at Gwinnett, Newton, & Rockdale County Health Departments.