Emergency Pet Preparedness Tips For Families

MIDDLETOWN, CT — (From Pieper Veterinary): In light of the ongoing global pandemic and regional natural disasters, many people have put together a disaster preparedness plan and kit for their families. When preparing for an emergent situation, it is important to include your furry, feathered, and scaly family members in your plans.

What should I have on hand for my pet in case of emergency?

Have your pet’s leash in an easy to access place near an exit to your home. This leash should be a 6-foot lead or shorter. A longer or extendable leash could be dangerous during an emergency.

Similarly, if you pet travels in a carrier, rather than on a leash, make sure that the carrier is readily accessible and ideally near an exit.

Remember that your pet will need food and water, just like you.

• Stock up on enough bottled water for you AND your pets. A good rule of thumb is to have enough water for your dog to have 1oz of water per pound per day (so a 100lb dog would need 100oz of water per day). Keep 3-5 days of water on hand.
• Keep 3-5 days of your pet’s regular food available. It is important to switch this food out regularly so that it doesn’t become stale or go bad. Try not to rapidly switch your pet’s food during an emergency as the stress of the situation and a new diet could lead to gastrointestinal upset.
• If your pet takes medications, make sure that you have plenty of their favorite treats for hiding medications.

Make sure that you have any of your pet’s chronic prescription medications on hand. Try to have them refilled 5-7 days BEFORE running out so that you always have extra on hand in case something prevents you from being able to get to your veterinarian or pharmacy.

Keep a copy of your pet’s pertinent medical records. These should include a list of any major medical issues, any medications they are currently taking, and proof of their vaccination status.

What if we have to evacuate?

Research available shelters in your area to see which ones are pet friendly and if there are any requirements (leash length, type of carrier, muzzle, etc.). Try to do this ahead of a disaster so that you aren’t scrambling to find shelter for yourself and your pets at the last minute.

Identify pet friendly hotels, friends, or family within driving distance that may be able to house you and your pets if needed.

Make sure that you keep your pet up to date on their vaccinations, as these may be requirements to enter pet friendly shelters.

Be sure to know what 24-hour emergency hospitals are available in your area, or your evacuation site, in case your pet is injured or has a medical emergency.

Remember that some animals, like birds, reptiles, and pocket pets, may be sensitive to extreme temperature changes. Be sure to have a plan to keep them warm or cool enough while evacuating.

How can I prepare my pet for an emergency?

Lots of pets are resistant to their carrier, and emergencies may cause additional stress that makes them want to hide or avoid the carrier. Make sure that your pet is acclimated to the carrier, and will willingly go into it.

Train dogs to wear a basket muzzle. These muzzles allow dogs to easily pant, drink water, and receive treats while wearing them. Emergencies often mean new environments, crowds, and potentially scary sights and sounds. Dogs may become injured during natural disasters and could therefore be painful and frightened when being transported. Normally very compliant dogs may be more prone to chew or eat things that could make them sick or bite people or other pets during these stressful situations. A basket muzzle ensures that your dog and others around you remain safe.

Make sure that your pet’s ID tags and microchip contain your up to date information in case you and your pet become separated. If your pet is not currently microchipped, schedule an appointment to have this done with your family veterinarian. It is a quick procedure that could save your pet’s life.

What should I do if I lose my pet during an emergency?

Alert your pet’s microchip company that your pet is missing.

Call local shelters and veterinary practices as your pet may be brought to one of these locations.

Post on community or neighborhood social media with a photo of your pet, their name, where they were last seen, and how to contact you. Update these posts as sighting occur.

When it is safe to return to your home, hang worn clothes or sheets outside. This may make it easier for dogs and cats to follow your scent home.

To help cats find their way home, put their litter box outside.

Remember that if you use food or humane traps, you may end up attracting other pets or wild animals.