Prepare Your Pet for Emergencies

When bad weather, spring floods or family emergencies occur, it is important to think of your pet’s needs and be prepared. Your pets are very vulnerable during an emergency and having the right information and supplies at your fingertips will help both your pets and your family.

A good emergency kit that includes enough supplies for all of your pets to last at least a week is essential. Along with the supplies, provide copies of your pet’s medical records, any medication they are on, an updated photo and instructions about their care.

Make sure to plan where you would take your pets if you had to evacuate your home. Talk to friends and family who would be willing to take your pets if needed and remain up-to-date on pet-friendly hotels and evacuation centres.

Proper identification is important all the time, but especially vital if your neighbourhood is evacuated due to a flood. Collars with proper tags (ID information, rabies tag and dog licenses) along with both a microchip and an ear tattoo will give you and your pet the best chance of a reunion in the event he or she becomes lost.

Being able to quickly gather all of your pets is important for situations such as having to move to a basement room during a tornado. It is important to train your dog to come to you, even with many distractions around. Make sure you know how to quickly and safely secure your cat in the event you must pick him or her up, even if they are afraid. Learn your pets’ hiding places in your home so that you will quickly be able to locate them.

For more detailed information on emergency preparedness for your pet, click here.