Disasters can happen anytime without notice, so you’re prepared, right? You have enough nonperishable food, bottled water, and extra batteries to weather the storm. But have you thought about your loyal four legged friend?
When you have a dog, a few extra considerations must be taken in your emergency preparations. Know that many disaster shelters will not allow pets, so make arrangements with friends or family in other states, and have a list of hotels along major routes out of your area that allow pets. Keep the list and copies of your friends’ phone numbers in your pooch’s emergency bag.
Make sure his identification tags are up-to-date and securely fastened to his collar. If possible, attach the address and/or phone number of your evacuation site. If your gets gets lost, his tag is his ticket home.
What to pack in your dog’s emergency bag
- · Veterinary records
- · Blanket
- · Food
- · Manual can opener
- · Bottled water
- · Food and water bowl
- · Wipes
- · Extra leash
- · Treats
- · Toys
- · Crate liners if your dog will be traveling in a crate
- · Pet first aid kit
- · Medications
- · Current photo in case he gets lost
If you evacuate, take your pets with you. They will not stand a chance on their own, and it could take weeks before you are allowed back in the area.
Take the time to pack a bag and make a plan, trying to think of every possible scenario. If a disaster hits while you are out of town and the roads are closed, do you have a friend or neighbor who can walk Fido and feed and water him? They will need access to a spare key.
Prior planning is essential. And remember to be patient with your dog, disasters are stressful to pets too.
For a list of items to put in your dog's first aid kit, click here
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