Pets and Disaster: Be Prepared

Be Prepared with a Disaster Plan

The best way to protect your family from the effects of a disaster is to have a disaster plan. If you are a pet owner, that plan must include your pets. Being prepared can save their lives.

In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them too. Leaving pets behind, even if you try to create a safe place for them, is likely to result in their being injured, lost or worse. So prepare now for the day when you and your pets may have to leave your home.

Red Cross disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety regulations and other considerations. Service animals are the only exception. Do not wait until disaster strikes to do your research.

Whether you are away from home for a day or a week, you’ll need essential supplies. Keep items in an accessible place and store them in sturdy containers that can be carried easily (duffle bags, covered trash containers, etc). Your pet disaster kit should include:

• Often warnings are issued hours, even days, in advance. At the first hint of disaster, act to protect your pet.
   
• Call ahead to confirm emergency shelter arrangements for you and your pets.
   
• Check to be sure your pet disaster supplies are ready to take at a moment’s notice.
   
• Bring all pets into the house so that you won’t have to search for them if you have to leave in a hurry.
   
• Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars and securely fastened, up-to-date identification. Attach the phone number and address of your temporary shelter, if you know it, or of a friend or relative outside the disaster area. You can buy temporary tags or put adhesive tape on the back of your pet’s ID tag, adding information with an indelible pen.

You may not be home when the evacuation order comes. Find out if a trusted neighbor would be willing to take your pets and meet you at a prearranged location. This person should be comfortable with your pets, know where your animals are likely to be, know where your pet disaster supplies kit is kept and have a key to your home. If you use a pet sitting service, they may be available to help, but discuss the possibilities well in advance.

Planning and preparation will enable you to evacuate with your pets quickly and safely. Bear in mind that animals react differently under stress. Outside your home and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. Transport cats in carriers. Don’t leave animals unattended anywhere they can run off. The most trustworthy pets may panic, hide, try to escape or even bite or scratch. When you return home, give your pets time to settle back into their routines. Consult your veterinarian if any behavior problems persist.

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