CULTIVATING COMPASSION
possible to evacuate all of them, there should be an alternative plan of action, such as moving them to higher ground, or perhaps turning them out in a field. Here are the key points to remember when making emergency plans for animals: ● If you are supposed to evacuate, evacuate early. If you wait until a forced evacuation, there might not be transportation for the animals, the roads may be gridlocked, and if you are planning on staying at a hotel, they may be full. ● Take all the animals in your care with you, even if it’s sup - posed to be for a short period of time. If it’s not safe enough for you to stay, it’s not safe enough for them. ● Plan in advance where you will go. Not every hotel or even family member is going to permit animals. ● Have a list of animal-friendly hotels and boarding fa- cilities, e.g., www.gopetfriendly.com. ● Reach out to your local animal shelter and the Red Cross to find out if they have plans to set up a tempo - rary animal shelter in the event of a disaster. ● Develop a companion animal-care buddy system, so if you are unable to reach your animals to take them to safety, someone else will. ● Keep companion animal necessities easily accessible and, as much as possible, in a permanent emergency supply kit. This includes: ● A week’s supply of food and treats in an airtight, wa - terproof container ● A week’s supply of drinking water ● Food and water bowls ● Carriers for cats, small dogs, and other small animals ● Plastic bags, paper towels, and cleaning supplies ● A collar and leash with ID and rabies tags ● A recent photo of you with your pet to prove you be- long together in case you become separated ● Vaccination records ● An extra supply of medication ● Toys ● A blanket and towels ● A copy of emergency phone numbers including veter- inary information ● Animal first aid book & kit ● Be sure to have your companion animals microchipped, and that your contact information is current with the microchip company. In case of separation, you are much more likely to be reunited if they are microchipped. ● Familiarize your companion animals with their transport crate. Placing treats in the crate and allowing them to freely walk in and out will help make it a more comfortable environ- ment. With horses and other large animals, practice loading them in and out of a trailer. ● Caring for birds and other exotic animals requires special con- sideration.
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PATHWAYS—Winter 24-25—31
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