into law in October 2006. The bipartisan PETS Act requires that if FEMA provides funds for federally declared natural disaster assistance, then state and municipality evacuation plans have to show pet emergency preparedness by accounting for pets and service animals through animal care, evacuation shelters, rescued pet identification, and response teams. A few states also included stipulations for zoo animals, wildlife, and livestock. Be sure to know what your state’s regulations are! How To Create A Pet Disaster Preparedness Plan Now that you understand the history behind a national reform of emergency preparedness for pets, it’s a great time to reflect on whether or not you are ready to keep your pet safe. Gather members of your family and discuss disaster preparedness for pets. Everyone can contribute to creating a plan and collecting items for your dog disaster kit. Here are some components you’ll need. Your Dog’s Health And Identification Come First Take a moment to see if your dog is up to date on all his vaccinations and boosters and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Stay on top of routine vet visits. Always microchip your dog and keep the information current. In addition, consider a collar where your information is embroidered directly onto the webbing with your dog’s name and phone number. You can also include a tag with even more identification just to be safe with your name, phone number, your dog’s name, and the microchip number.
a safe area, such as a closet or interior bathroom, away from any windows or exterior walls. If you choose to leave, check your local evacuation route. Have a list of pet- friendly shelters and hotels at the ready. Practice your route so you know where to go in good weather so your trip isn’t made for the first time when the weather is terrible and emotions are high. Knowing where to go also covers shelters or animal control numbers and addresses in case you are unfortunately separated from your pet. If you are separated from family members, have a centralized meeting spot. Write Out Important Information No one has time to google “Emergency veterinarian near me” when a disaster strikes! Make a list of all numbers to help your pet stay healthy. Know the name, number, hours of operation, and address with directions to your regular vet and an emergency vet. If you have a dog with special requirements, absolutely be sure to write out necessary medications (names, doses, and when to give them), particular food or supplements, and routines. Collect All Essential Pet Documents You can’t expect to run around gathering documents scattered in various places, or worse yet, missing completely. Choose a system that works for you and be able to locate your pet’s important papers to take with you. Consider keeping them right next to your important life documents, such as your Social Security cards, all necessary account information, insurance policies, etc. You can even use a fireproof, waterproof box that you can grab on your way out.
know right away what pets may be inside when you display a pet rescue sticker in your window or on your door. Alerting officials with pet names, types, and emergency numbers goes a long way in case you are unable to be at your home. Make A Promise To Your Pet To Listen To Authorities During A Disaster The best thing you can do is heed any local, state, or federal warnings and directions. Follow a trusted news source and act when they tell you to act. Keep up with the weather reports if you live in an area prone to natural disasters. Enable emergency alerts on your devices. Know Where To Go In Case Of An Emergency Depending on the nature of the disaster, you will choose to either shelter in place or evacuate. Whether you have some warning or mere seconds to act, always know where your family will go when you must stay or evacuate your home quickly.
Display A Pet Rescue Sticker Firefighters and first responders can
Important Pet Papers May Include: • Certificate of sale or registration
If you remain in your home, identify
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 34
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