Is My Pet Prepared for an Emergency?
Natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes, tsunamis, and hurricanes are, unfortunately, a fact of life for most people. Although we can’t always know when a disaster is going to strike, we can do our best to ensure both our human and animal family members are well prepared to evacuate or shelter safely in place during a disaster.
5 Steps to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency
1. Make an Emergency Kit
Just like you keep emergency supplies on hand for the humans in your family, you should also have an emergency kit packed and ready to go for your pet. This kit should include everything your pet needs to survive during a disaster including items like:
- Veterinary records (proof of vaccination and county pet registration)
- Fresh food
- Fresh water
- Extra medications
- Leash and harness
- Pet carrier and/or crate
- Pet first aid kit
- Grooming items
- Comfort items (toys, blanket, or bed)
- A picture of you and your pet
2. Have an Evacuation Plan
You should also have an evacuation plan ready in case you need to leave. When you have pets, this isn’t always as simple as driving to the next town and getting a hotel room. Make sure the place where you plan to stay welcomes pets or be sure you have safe accommodations elsewhere for your pet.
3. Microchips, Collars, and ID Tags
Pets commonly get lost during emergencies and evacuations. It’s essential your pet has a sturdy collar and current ID tags in addition to a microchip with your current contact information logged in the national database.
4. Use the Buddy System
Make sure you have a trusted friend or family member appointed to rescue your pet in the event you can’t get home when a disaster strikes. Be sure they know where to locate your pet’s emergency kit, as well.
5. Local Veterinary Hospitals
It’s also smart to keep a list of veterinary hospitals and boarding facilities in nearby towns where you might go if evacuation orders are in place. This can save precious time if your pet requires these services during an emergency.
Emergency Preparedness for Pets With Signature Veterinary Services
Signature Veterinary Services brings all the veterinary care and services your pet needs to prepare for a disaster right to your doorstep. Our mobile veterinary clinic provides vaccinations, parasite prevention, microchips, and recommendations for emergency care. To learn more or schedule an appointment for your pet, we welcome you to contact our Carlsbad-based mobile veterinary clinic today.
