Prepare in Advance to Care for Your Pets in an Emergency

If we've learned anything from the recent storms, natural disasters, and other emergencies, how well you fare and how fast you recover may depend heavily on how well you prepared ahead of time.   Before disaster strikes, have a plan for your pets so you can act quickly to save their lives.

Here are some points to consider to ensure the safety of your pets: 

- Prepare pets by having them wear I.D. at all times, not just when you leave home. 

-Get your pet micro-chipped, or listed in an identification program in the event they are lost. 

- Know where emergency animal shelters and facilities are in your area. If for some reason you and your family get evacuated to an emergency shelter, there’s a chance they will not allow you to bring your pets, so you should be aware of alternatives. 

- Prepare a pet first aid kit, in case of illness or injury. That’s a great place to keep your pet’s vaccination records, your vet’s contact information, and pictures of your pet in case you need to make posters.
In addition, the pet first aid kit should have these emergency supplies:
- - pet food and a bottle of water 
- - your pet’s prescription medicine 
- - gauze, bandages, adhesive tape 
- - peroxide 
- - activated charcoal which will absorb poison if necessary 
- - cloths or small towels 
- - a muzzle if the dog is large 


Here's what the Humane Societies of the United States (HSUS) recommends that you prepare in case of emergency:

- Have a pet leash and a carrier ready to grab easily. The pet may have to live in the carrier for some time, so make it a sturdy, roomy one. 

- Before a disaser strikes, crate train your pets, so they will be less uncomfortable if they have to be in one for an extended period. 

Think ahead so this guy doesn't get left behind or left without the things he needs to survive till you return.

Credit: natxodiego

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