We’ve seen the sad fate of many family pets in recent
tragedies such as Hurricane Katrina and the Haiti earthquake. During disasters,
many pets become lost, scared and separated from their families. Animal shelters
quickly become overfilled and it may become difficult to locate and/or identify
your pet. The recent devastation resulting from the Japan earthquake and
tsunami serves as yet another reminder to consider our own pet emergency
preparedness.
1. Pet
Identification:
Make sure your dog wears an identifying tag with your mobile phone number;
consider getting a microchip in case your pet’s collar comes off; take a
picture of yourself with your pet in order to help identify or claim him.
2. Prepare
a Pet Go Bag:
·
Food – 3 day supply in waterproof container; be
sure to replace and resupply before food expires
·
Water – 3 day supply
·
Dishes - small, lightweight or collapsible
·
Pet medication with instructions; be sure to
replace and resupply before medication expires
·
Collar; walking leash; long leash or rope with
carabiner clip for tethering; soft muzzle (dogs may bite when afraid)
·
Clean up supplies: poop bags; paper towels; pet
waste clean-up product
·
Towel
·
Toy or bone
·
In case of emergency instructions and contact
information
3. Crate:
A crate is a necessity for cats and other
small animals; big dogs might be ok on leash but also might like the safety and
warmth of a crate; consider a soft-sided crate for easy transport.
4. Prepare
an In Case of Emergency List:
Where can your dog go? Prepare a list of
family, friends and neighbors who would take care of your animals in case of an
emergency; make sure they have your contact information, your pet’s bio and a list
of alternatives for pet care; print a list of pet friendly hotels in your area;
http://www.1clickpethotels.com/oregon.htm;
locate kennels and boarding facilities in your area.
First published March 18, 2011
Copyright
© 2011 Jill Tonkin and Best Behavior Dog Services, LLC. All rights
reserved.
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