Whether it’s a severe storm, an everyday emergency or something in between, you and your family should have a plan in place to keep yourselves safe. Remember, if something is unsafe for you, it is unsafe for your pet as well. When coming up with a disaster plan for different situations, don’t forget to include your pets!
Keep the following in mind when planning for disasters:
- Make sure your dog or cat is wearing an up-to-date collar with identification that includes your phone number.
- Have a disaster kit ready that includes pet necessities, such as:
- Food and water to last at least five days
- Medications and medical records
- Litter box, scoop and garbage bags for your cat
- A leash and carrier
- Current photos of you with your pets in the event you are separated
- Research pet-friendly hotels and motels in your area that you can stay at if you need to evacuate your home.
- Make arrangements with a neighbor or friend to take your pets if an emergency happens when you are away from home.
- If you have to evacuate, always take your pet, even if you plan on only being gone for a short amount of time.
- If you stay at home during a storm or other disaster, close off unsafe nooks inside where a pet could hide, and try to contain the animal in a certain room.
If you have any other questions involving emergency pet preparedness, contact the Metropolitan Veterinary Center in Chicago at 312-583-1921.
Courtesy of The Humane Society of the United States
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