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This time of year brings the potential for many different types of disasters, both natural and man-made. Are you and your pet prepared?
From hurricanes to earthquakes, gas leaks to acts of terrorism, we are all at risk for some sort of disaster. Because events occur quickly and decisions are made fast, you need to have a plan for yourself and your animals in case of a disaster. First and foremost, if you are ordered to evacuate your home, you should plan to take your pets with you. Even anticipated short evacuations can turn into week long absences. Other recommendations include maintaining proper identification on your pets, preparing evacuation kits, and obtaining important medical records from your veterinarian.
Acquaint yourself with the types of disasters that can affect your area. Then develop an evacuation plan for your animals. For pets this may mean putting the small animals in a carrier and into the car for immediate evacuation. For farm animals, you would need to have an appropriate trailer handy and know where you can take each animal to be away from the danger and still receive proper care.
Be sure all your animals have proper identification. Rabies and ID tags are the best form for small animals. Microchipping is becoming a popular form of animal identification. An ID tag on a halter works well for large animals.
An animal carrier and an evacuation kit are the two most important things to have ready in advance. Have your evacuation kit near the carrier or cage and keep the items in it fresh. This allows for fast action. For an evacuation all you would need to do is put your pets in the carrier and grab the kit. An old overnight bag or back pack works well. Some of the most important items to keep in your animal’s evacuation bag would include: any needed medications, leashes, food, medical records, towels for bedding, and a bottle or two of water.
Returning home after a natural disaster has its own important issues to prepare for as well. If you have taken your pet with you, realize that many familiar items may be changed or missing from their environment. Survey your home for potential dangers, such as broken glass. Keeping current photographs of your pets are essential if you cannot take your pet, or if your pet runs off after returning home. These pictures can be used to create “lost” posters for distribution. Checking the local shelters and animal control facilities daily is a vital means to being reunited with your pet. Finally, inform your neighbors and your family veterinarian about your missing friend.
As we have seen in several wide spread disasters, many people will not evacuate without their pets. Leaving your home with your pets does not have to be a disaster, but takes pre-planning and thought.
Prepared by Sara Lash, DVM of Healthy Pets Mobile Vet who can be contacted at www.drsaralash.com or 919-329-7387(PETS)
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