How to prepare for a natural disaster with your pup
Environmental emergencies and disasters can affect any place at any time. Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires are the most common alongside others like chemical spills and water breeches. In the event of a natural disaster, every household should have a plan of action for both you and your pets.
The American Kennel Club offers these tips for keeping your pet safe.
Have an evacuation plan. Having a plan in place will help reduce stress and worry when you need to be decisive during an emergency. It is important to set up a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters happen. Be sure to do research on which shelters and hotels allow pets. If taking them to a shelter/hotel is not an option, be sure to plan an alternative place to house your pet such as with a friend of family member. Never leave your pets behind when evacuating.
Obtain a rescue alert sticker. Keep a sticker on your home's windows and doors to tell emergency workers or neighbors that there are pets inside. Make sure it is visible by placing it on or near your front door. Be sure to include the types and number of pets in your home as well as the name and number of your veterinarian. The ASPCA offers free emergency pet alert stickers for your home. Your local pet store may also sell similar stickers. If you do evacuate with your pets, and if you have time, write "EVACUATED" across the sticker.
Microchip your pet. Pets can become disoriented and wander in a crisis. It is important that you have a way to locate them if this happens. Be sure to keep your address and phone number up-to-date and include contact information for an emergency contact in your immediate area. Your dog should also wear a collar and ID tags with your contact information. If your dog has major health issues that require medication, this information should be included on their tag as well.
Put together a supply kit for your pup. When making a supply kit, think about the basics for survival, such as food and water, making sure to include at least three days' worth of food, water and medicine. Take a photo of your pet's prescriptions if necessary. It is also a good idea to have two kits: one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version if you need to evacuate. Keep your kits up-to-date to ensure that their contents (especially food and medicines) are fresh. Other items to be included might be an image of you and your dog, a crate and leashes, first aid, sanitation needs, and a familiar item such as their favorite toy.
Evacuation training skills. Training your dog to be comfortable around people outside of their immediate family can be a lifesaving skill when in an emergency. Practicing this skill will help your dog be less stressed if a stranger needs to care for them. Crate training and teaching your dog to settle are also important tools for your pup to know in case of an emergency. They will help prepare your dog for stressful situations and know how to relax at your feet while your attention is elsewhere.
Contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get additional information if you're unsure how to care for your pet in case of an emergency.
For more tips on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org.
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