Most people do not plan for unexpected events. Disasters–natural or man-made–are totally unexpected events. With any disaster, planning is the key to survival and recovery.
While you are planning for your family’s survival, remember that your pets depend upon you. A disaster is as stressful to your pets as it is to you. The love shared with your pets can help reduce the stress of a disaster, for you, your family, and your pets.
You should prepare a disaster kit for your pets just as you prepare one for yourself. Your dog or cat should have a collar with a current license. Consider having an identification chip implanted in your pet. The following list of items is the minimum that you should have for each animal.
- Copies of current veterinary records
- Extra dishes for food and water
- A minimum 3-day supply of food and water
- An extra supply of medications
- Current photographs and records and other identification
- A portable carrier
- Leashes and a rope to construct a temporary dog run
- Favorite toys
- Bedding material
- Shelter from inclement weather