Pet Preparedness

When preparing your home disaster plan, don't forget to include your pets on the list. They will depend on you even more after a disaster.

• Store enough food and water to last for 72 hours, preferably for one week.
• Prepare a shelter or evacuation kit for your pet.
  • An unbreakable dish
• Pet food
• Can opener
• Veterinarian records
• A leash or pet carrier
• Medications and instructions.
• Keep your pet's ID tag up-to-date, an securely fasted to the collar
• A current photo of your pet will assist identification should it become necessary
• Arrange for a neighbor to take care of your pet if you are not able to get home after a disaster.
• Be patient with your pets after an emergency. They get stressed just like people and need time to readjust. They may disappear for some time, but they generally show up again when things have calmed down.
• If you must evacuate your home, leave your pet secured in a safe place. With the exception of service animals, pets are not permitted in emergency shelters for health reasons.

Larger animals in disaster

If you have large animals, such as horses or cattle on your property, be sure to prepare before a disaster.

• Evacuate animals whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
• Evacuation destinations should prepared with, or ready to obtain food, water, veterinary care, and handling equipment.
• Vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal should be available along with experienced handlers and drivers.
• In case evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to shelter or turn them outside. The decisions should be based on the disaster type, quality and location of shelter, and the risks of turning them outside.