Care for Your Pet in A Disaster

1. Know where you are going to take your dogs: Identify a pre-arranged safe location for your pets outside of your community, for example with a friend in another city.

2. Know how you’re going to get there: Here’s where timing is important. If disaster occurs, whether it’s by fire or flood, the longer you wait the more roads could be blocked and your options could be limited.

3. Emergency kit: Remember your dog’s needs while putting together your family’s emergency kit! Be prepared to care for your pet for at least 72 hours, and include items such as:

* food (especially if your dog has special dietary needs)
* water
* dishes
* any medication your dog needs
* a copy of your dog’s vaccination records, and
* current photographs of your dog (be sure to show any identifying marks).

After the Storm

When the most immediate danger is past, get your dog back into its familiar routine as soon as possible. Also, try to focus on keeping your dog calm and quiet. This can be difficult when you’re in the midst of highly emotional settings, but it’s important because your dog will pick up cues from you, the leader of the house.

If You and Your Dog are Separated

Rule #1: The more identification you have for your pet, the more likely you are to get it back.

* Put an alternative emergency contact and phone number on your dog’s ID, preferably for someone outside of your hometown.
* Get your dog microchipped
* Keep a picture with you that shows both you and your dog. This acts as another proof of ownership should you get separated.

Credit: wikifido.com