Tips For Protecting Pets In An Emergency

From PetFirst Healthcare

Pets are often overlooked during disasters and emergencies, as seen during California wildfires in which 15,000 pets were displaced. PetFirst Healthcare, based in Jeffersonville, Ind., recommends that pets be included in families’ emergency plans. Brent Hinton, PetFirst chief executive officer and former head of the Kentucky Humane Society, suggests these steps to increase the chance of pet survival in an emergency:

• Identify a shelter — During mass evacuations or relocation, many disaster shelters, including Red Cross, will not accept pets due to health and safety regulations. Hinton suggests identifying alternative shelter in advance. Ask family, friends or others outside your area if they are able to shelter your pets, and research pet friendly hotels and motels.
• Pack a pet-survival kit — Include pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, food dishes, toys, a leash or pet carrier and a current pet photo in case the pet becomes separated.
• Bring pets indoors — Never leave pets outside or tied up during disasters. Find a safe indoor location to prevent them from running away due to anxiety or fear.
• Separate dogs and cats — They may normally get along, but pets can act irrationally in the event of an emergency.

If there is no alternative to leaving pets behind, Hinton recommends the following:

• Confine pets inside — Provide dry food, because moist and canned food may spoil, as well as plenty of water.
• Outside notice — Place a notice outside the building, advising what pets have been left and where they are located inside.
• Phone numbers — Provide the owner’s mobile phone numbers, along with the name and number of the pet’s veterinarian.

For more information, visit PetFirst Healthcare online.

Source: PetFirst Healthcare