Emergency Prep for Pets

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Recent storms highlight the need for pet owners to be ready.

Following the threat of Hurricane Earl along the East Coast, pet owners have become aware of the dangers of the current storm season. Some reports predict that this year’s season will be as turbulent as previous years, if not more so.

The nasty weather serves as a reminder to pet owners to make sure to have a disaster plan in place that accounts for pets.

Here are suggestions from the ASPCA on how to prep your pets for emergencies:

Get a Rescue Alert Sticker

This easy-to-use sticker will let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes 1) the types and number of pets in your household; 2) the name of your veterinarian; and 3) your veterinarian's phone number. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.

Arrange a Safe Haven

Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. Do not leave your pets behind. Remember, if it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards.

Note: Not all Red Cross disaster shelters accept pets, so it is imperative to determine where you will bring your pets ahead of time:

1. Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities.

2. Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets.

3. Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets.

4. Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.

Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits

Keep an Evac-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)

Top 5 items should include:

1. Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet) and an extra leash or harness.

2. About a week's worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food, and bottled water.

3. Disposable litter trays and litter.

4. Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)

5. Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires.

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