Things You'll Need:
- Means of identification for your pet/pets
- Alternative Care Options
- Means of Control
- Articles of comfort
- Food and water
- An emergency kit
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Step 1
Your pet must always have on them a collar and an identification tag. This includes cats. This tag should have the pet's name, address and phone number. Some veterinarians supply tags with their name, phone number and a code number for your pet. Check these tags often to make sure they are still in place.
You must have an alternate caregiver appointed for your pet in case you are incapacitated.
Near you front door, you should have a notice that informs any medical or emergency personnel, entering your home, that you have a pet/pets and how you wish them dealt with. This may be anyone reliable. Always talk over this situation with the person you name.
This notice should also contain any special conditions your pet has or any special needs such as specific food or regular medication. On this notice you should also include your veterinarian's name, phone number and the name of a kennel where you wish to keep your pet, in an emergency, until you are able to reclaim him/her. -
Step 2
Your pet should have a sturdy leash and collar. If these articles are not in use, they should be hung near the door you usually exit. If you have a cat that will not tolerate a leash, then you must have a suitable cage at hand. These can often be bought, inexpensively at garage sales or in second hand stores.
If you have transportation available and must leave your home, your dog will need his own seat belt. This will control his movements and allow safer driving.
Your pet should have an emergency supply of food and water available. This should be, at a minimum, enough to last for five days, more if possible. If your dog eats only canned food, try to get him accustomed to some dry food as this is lighter for you to carry.
Bottled water is the easiest to keep. Realize that a 60 pound dog needs a minimum of 4 cups of water per day. You will need plastic bags and disinfectants to deal with your pet' s wastes. For cats, a bag of litter is essential. In case you have to leave your home, have light plastic feeding bowls available.
All family members should be aware of your pet's needs during an emergency.
Have a light blanket for your animal's comfort, a few treats, and one of his favorite chew toys. -
Step 3
Your pet should have a first aid kit to meet his own needs. The bandages, sterile pads etc. that you have in your own medical kit are adequate for your pet as well, but you should consult your veterinarian for a suitable antibiotic, pain killer etc. to meet your animal's specific needs. Animals do not react well to some human medications.
Keep your pet's emergency supplies neatly packed in a durable bag or box in a readily accessible location. -
Step 4
Some areas already plans in place for pet sanctuaries in case of emergency. You may wish to become involved in these, or if none is available near you, get together with other pet owners and start one of your own.
