Preparing for Disasters With Your Pets

A tornado, a flash flood, or a wildfire can be terrifying events that bring our worst fears to life. These disasters often strike without warning, causing panic and confusion. In such situations, you may need to evacuate your home quickly. It's crucial to have a plan in place for you and your family, including your pets.

While we hope you never face such emergencies, being prepared will give you a sense of security. Know what to do, where to go, and how to keep your pets safe. Having a well-thought-out plan can help you navigate these catastrophic events with greater ease and ensure the safety of your loved ones, including your furry companions.

Make a Plan

When it comes to disaster planning, preparation is key. Keep a leash by the exit and have a planned destination in case you need to leave in a hurry. If possible, have more than one transportation option in mind in case your primary mode becomes unavailable.

Ensure your pets have proper identification, including an up-to-date license, microchip, and labeled carriers. This makes it easier for anyone who finds your pet to contact you, allowing for a quick reunion.

Know Where to Seek Shelter

It's not easy to think about something happening to your home, but it's important to have a plan in place should you – and your pets – need to evacuate. For many, calling a friend or family member is the solution, but what if that's not an option? Ask your veterinarian for a list of facilities that can accommodate pets. Identify pet-friendly places where you and your pet could stay until it's safe to return home. Having a plan in place can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your furry companions if disaster strikes.

Build an Emergency Kit

In the event of an emergency, it can be challenging to pack for yourself and your pet when you're under duress and in a hurry, increasing the likelihood of forgetting something crucial. To avoid this, prepare a pet emergency kit that you can easily grab if you need to evacuate quickly. This will ensure you can provide for your pet's needs when you're away from home, and it will save you precious seconds if you're rushing to leave.

When preparing a kit, consider everything your furry companion requires on a daily basis: food, water, medications, leash or harness, and maybe even a toy or two to keep them entertained. It's also essential to include a pet first-aid kit in case your pet gets injured.

You can create your own pet first-aid kit using this comprehensive checklist to ensure you have all the necessary items:

• Food and Water: Plan for three to seven days’ worth of food and bottled water per pet, with airtight containers, serving bowls, and a manual can opener.
• Medications: Pack extra medications your pet needs, as access to a veterinarian may be limited during a disaster.
• First Aid Kit: Purchase or assemble a pet first aid kit with all necessary items.
• Shelter Information and Travel-Ready Equipment: Have a current list of shelters, boarding facilities, hotels, or family members that can accommodate your pets. Store this information on your phone and in your prep kit. Ensure your pets' carriers are ready.
• Identification and Restraints: Ensure your pet always has a secure collar with appropriate ID tags, leash, and harness.
• Important Documents: Keep your veterinarian’s information, animal control, boarding facilities, emergency veterinary clinics, and the Animal Poison Control Center contact info. Include your pets’ medical records, rabies registration, microchip info, and a current picture.
• Sanitation Supplies: Include litter, newspapers, a litter box for cats, disposable bags, dish soap, and disinfectant.
• Comfort Items: Pack favorite blankets, bedding, and toys to reduce stress and provide comfort.

Having a pet emergency kit ready to go can provide peace of mind and ensure that your pet's needs are taken care of in the event of an emergency evacuation.

Don’t Forget Your Rescue Alert Sticker

What if you’re not home when disaster strikes? How will rescuers know you share your home with a furry family member? By placing an ASPCA Pet Alert sticker in your window or on your front door, you are letting emergency responders know that there may be pets inside the house, as well as what types of pets, how many, and how to get in touch with your veterinarian. Get a free sticker today from the ASPCA!

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe

Disasters can be unpredictable and terrifying, but being prepared can make all the difference for you and your pets. By creating a comprehensive disaster plan, building an emergency kit, and knowing where to seek shelter, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your furry companions during emergencies.

Remember, preparation is key to reducing panic and confusion when disaster strikes. Take the time now to organize your plan, gather necessary supplies, and inform yourself about the best practices for pet disaster preparedness. Your pets depend on you for their safety and comfort, so make sure you’re ready to protect them.

Use our checklist to start preparing your pet disaster plan today and ensure your furry family members are protected in any emergency!

_{An ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plan can help you with eligible costs for covered conditions like surgery expenses for accidents and help provide peace of mind that your pet can receive the care they need. Check out our online resources to learn more about your insurance options and get a free quote today. The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.}

(opens new window)