Monday, June 19, 2017

June is National Pet Preparedness Month

June is National Pet Preparedness Month, a time dedicated to making sure if a natural disaster strikes, you have an evacuation plan in place for the whole family including your pets! Predicting when (or how badly) weather may strike is very difficult. But having a plan in place ahead of time makes for much safer and smoother sailing if the weather tables turn and you have to evacuate.



If you already have an “Emergency Bag” or evacuation pack ready, great! Here's your reminder to replace any old food and medication, update photos, and check emergency contact information. Don't have an Emergency Bag yet? Here are some items yours should include:


  • At least 7 days worth of food and water for both you and your animal
  • Extra food and water bowls
  • Medications
  • Extra collar or harness and a leash, plus a carrier for small pets
  • Clean up supplies (i.e. disinfectants, towels or paper towels, plastic bags)
  • A flashlight
  • Blankets
  • Toys and chews
  • Updated copies of medical records and a recent photo of your pet
  • Contact information for local veterinarians, pet friendly hotels and shelters, and out of town family members willing to take in your pets in case of an emergency
  • First aid kit with pet-specific supplies


Don't forget to store your Emergency Bag somewhere easily accessible and ready to take at a moment's notice. It won't help anyone if your bag is stored in the back closet behind all the holiday decorations! Also, don’t forget to rotate any water or food regularly, and try to buy canned food that has a pop-top for easy opening.


For more information, visit https://www.ready.gov/animals