Pet parents living in areas where there's dangerous weather are often prepared to save their furry, finned, or feathered family, but what about the rest of us? We don't expect emergencies, but it's crucial that we plan what to do if one arises. Say, flooding, fire, evacuation orders from civic authorities, even loud holidays like July Fourth - are we prepared to quickly and safely get our animals away with our human family members?

At-home Preparedness

Use a rescue sticker alert on doors and windows to let emergency personnel  know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes the types and number of pets in your household and your veterinarian's phone number.

• Keep all house pets’ paperwork, tags, etc. in a single waterproof container, with medications, prescriptions, microchip/tattoo information, photos of you with each pet with name on back, emergency contact information in case you are incapacitate
• Make an emergency escape plan. Review and practice it regularly with all able family members
• Know which hotels and motels along your evacuation route will accept pets in an emergency. Call ahead for reservations if you know you may need to evacuate. Ask if no-pet policies could be waived in an emergency
• Know which friends, relatives, boarding facilities, animal shelters or veterinarians can care for your animals in an emergency. Prepare a list with phone numbers
• Although your animals may be more comfortable together, be prepared to house them separately
• Include your pets in evacuation drills so that they become used to entering and traveling in their carriers calmly
• Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are current and that all dogs and cats are wearing collars with securely fastened up-to-date identification. Many pet shelters require proof of current vaccinations to reduce the spread of disease
• Consider having your pet microchipped by your veterinarian
• Bring your companion animals indoors and maintain direct control of them. Be sure that your pet emergency kit is ready to go in case of evacuation
• A calming garment, like a Thunder Shirt, can be of great help, even in situations where you don’t need to leave your home. Ask your veterinarian about medical help for animals extremely anxious around loud noises and bright lights

The American Red Cross suggests you keep an emergency kit or “go bag.”

• Keep items in an accessible place and store them in sturdy containers so that they can be carried easily.
• Your kit should include:
• Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure that they can’t escape
• Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan and a manual can opener if you pet eats canned food
• Medications and copies of medical records stored in a waterproof container
• A first aid kit
• Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost. Since many pets look alike, this will help to eliminate mistaken identity and confusion
• Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you can’t remain with your pets 
• A copy of the emergency helpers list with phone numbers

Help Your Pets Recover After an Emergency

Your pets’ behavior may change dramatically after a disaster, becoming aggressive or defensive. Be aware of their wellbeing and protect them from new situations to ensure the safety of other people and animals.

• Pets may become disoriented, particularly if the disaster has affected scent markers that normally allow them to find their home
• Be aware of hazards at nose and paw or hoof level, particularly debris, spilled chemicals, fertilizers and other substances that might not seem dangerous to you
• Consider a calming garment, plug-in diffuser, or medical help
• Consult your veterinarian if any behavior problems persist

Holly Holmes

Owner Pets at Home – Where They’re Happiest!