We never think it will happen to us. We actually don’t want to think about it at all. But emergency situations pop up in an instant, all the time. It’s important to be prepared, especially when it comes to your animals, due to the unpredictable and unsettling nature of these changes. During unforeseen and unfortunate times, whether it be a natural disaster or a family emergency, preparing ahead can make your life so much easier. Sadly, all too often history has shown that many pets are abandoned, lost, or harmed simply because no one planned for their continued care.
Here are five ways that you can be prepared for an emergency when it comes to your four-legged family members:
- Have a ready-to-go emergency kit put together. Make sure to include your pet’s food, supplies, leashes, any needed medication, and water bottles. If you’d prefer, you can also purchase a disaster preparedness kit such as the Save Your Pet Pack. These bags are easy to wear so your hands are free for grabbing your pets and running out the door during a time of urgency.
- Have their records and travel carriers. Make copies of your pets’ medical records and store them with their travel carriers. This will make it convenient for you to prove their health and updated vaccinations as needed. Expose them to their carriers regularly and fill them with familiar blanketing and toys in order to ensure that they’d be comfortable in there.
- Microchip your pets and keep their collars and tags on! You can rest easy that Fido and Fluffy will always find their way back to you if you keep them easily identifiable. Remind yourself to update their ID’s if changes arise in your contact numbers or living situation.
- Know your pets’ hiding places so you can find them. Should you need to evacuate your home fast, know where your fur-kids like to hide, sleep, or play. You don’t want to waste precious time desperately searching for your pets when evacuation is necessary. Knowing their habits will allow for a quicker departure.
- Pet-friendly housing. Have a list of pet-friendly hotels/motels, boarding facilities, and shelters on hand. Make housing exchange agreements with out-of-area friends or relatives so that you can be certain you and your pets have a place to go. Never leave your pets behind!
Remember that our pets count on us. When an emergency strikes, it’s best to be ready so that you can lead them to safety along with you. Then you can focus your energy on comforting each other.
