Disaster Preparedness

HEAD: Always Be Prepared—Just In Case!

We often can’t predict emergencies, but we can plan for them, just in case! With winter weather headed our way soon enough, now is the perfect time to make sure you and your whole family, including your pets, is ready for anything that could come your way. Here are some tips for making sure your pets are also prepared in case of an emergency.

Microchip your pets. First and foremost, microchip your pets. If your pets are already microchipped, check that their registration is updated with your current address and phone number. Pets often run off when they are afraid, and microchipping helps make it easier for authorities to reunite lost pets with their owners.

Put together a disaster preparedness kit. You probably already have a kit like this for your human family members, and you should have a kit for your pets as well. The kit should include:

  • Enough food, water and necessary medications for five days.
  • Photos of you with your pets to help identify them if they get lost—and to prove to authorities that your pets are indeed your pets.
  • Sturdy leashes and carriers that are big enough for your pets to lay down in for extended periods of time.
  • Medical records and contact information for your veterinarian.
  • Fun toys to keep busy!
  • Extra blankets and warm clothing for your pets in case the power goes out during a snowstorm.

Find somewhere to stay ahead of time. In an emergency situation, you may have to leave your home, and many emergency shelters don’t allow pets. Call hotels ahead of time to see if they would allow you to bring your pets in case of an emergency.

Bring your pets inside. No matter what is happening, it is almost always safer for your pet to be with you in any emergency situation. Whether you need to evacuate your area or you are holed up in your home for a few days, your pet should be inside and with you. Your pets will be much, much safer if you bring them with you, so make it a priority to do so.

To get your pets microchipped, or to get more help preparing for emergencies as a pet owner, call XXXX at 999-999-9999.