Disasters can strike without warning, and being prepared is crucial not just for us, but for our beloved pets as well. Everyone who owns a pet should have a Disaster Preparedness Pet Go Kit ready to grab and go when time is a crucial factor. This is a comprehensive guide to ensure your pets are safe and well-cared for during emergencies. For a detailed and complete guide for pet parents and pet sitters click on NAPPS Emergency Planning Guide.

1. Create a Disaster Preparedness Pet Go Kit

Just like humans, pets need a well-stocked emergency kit. Here’s what to include:

- Food and Water: At least a week’s supply or more of food and water. Don’t forget a can opener if you use canned food and non-spill food and water dishes.

- Medications: A two-week supply of any medications your pet needs, along with copies of medical records.

- First Aid Kit: Your first-aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pill popper, pill cutter and any specific items recommended by your vet for your particular pet.

- Sanitation: Pet waste bags, litter, disposable litter trays and a litter scoop.

- Comfort Items: Make sure to pack toys, bedding, and anything that can help reduce stress.

- Identification: Copies of registration information, adoption papers, and any other relevant documents you may have for your pet.

-Always let your pet sitter know where to locate your Disaster Preparedness Pet Go Kit. 

2. It’s important to create a pet-friendly evacuation plan

- Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Identify hotels and shelters that accept pets. Make a list and keep it handy in your Disaster Preparedness Pet Go Kit.

- Transportation: Ensure you have a safe way to transport your pets, such as carriers for small animals or harnesses and leashes for larger ones.

- Emergency Contacts: Have a list of friends, family, and pet-friendly shelters that can help if you need to evacuate.

3. Keep your pet's information updated

- ID Tags and Microchips: Ensure your pet’s ID tags have up-to-date contact information. Microchipping your pet adds an extra layer of security. 

- Medical Records: You should always keep digital and physical copies of your pet’s medical records. This includes vaccination history and any chronic conditions.

-Keep waterproof containers for your documents in your Disaster Preparedness Pet Go Kit.

-Pictures of your pets just in case you become separated or should need to prove ownership.

4. Practice your plan

- Evacuation Drills: Conduct regular drills to ensure everyone in your household knows what to do and where to go in case of an emergency for them and your pets.

- Familiarization: Help your pets get used to their carriers or harnesses to reduce stress during a real evacuation.

5. Stay informed

- Weather Alerts: Make sure you are signed up for weather alerts so you can stay informed about potential disasters in your area.

- Community Resources: Know the resources available in your community, such as pet-friendly shelters and animal hospitals.

6. Prepare for different types of disasters depending on where you live.

- Earthquakes: Ensure heavy items are secured to prevent injury. Have a safe space in your home where pets can shelter.

- Floods: Know the flood zones in your area and have an evacuation route planned. Never leave pets behind if you have to evacuate.

- Wildfires: Have a go-bag ready and know multiple evacuation routes. Keep pets indoors to prevent them from running away in panic.

7. After the disaster

- Re-entry Safety: Check your home for hazards before letting your pets roam freely.

- Behavioral Changes: Be aware that pets may exhibit stress or behavioral changes after a disaster. Comfort them and seek professional help if needed.

- Veterinary Check-Up: If needed schedule a vet appointment to check for any injuries or health issues that may have arisen.

Conclusion

Disaster preparedness is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of your pets. By following these steps and staying informed, you can protect your furry family members in times of crisis. Remember, the key to effective disaster preparedness is planning ahead and staying calm. Your pets depend on you, so take the necessary steps today to be ready for whatever comes your way. For a complete emergency planning guide go to NAPPS Emergency Planning Guide. Stay prepared and stay safe!

Lora Rouse, NAPPS Member 

Chief Pet Sitter at Cool Cats Professional Cat Sitting, LLC