expose any flaws in your plans so you can work out any kinks before you implement it in a real-life situation. Build a Pet Emergency Preparedness Kit Now that you’ve thoroughly planned where to go and what to do with
pet emergency preparedness kit in an easy-to-find location where it’s easy to grab on the way out. Keep it stocked as well! Have A Simple First-Aid Kit For Dogs Being able to treat minor wounds or other first aid needs will help you be prepared for situations that need immediate attention not requiring a vet visit (or when a vet visit is not accessible). You can purchase a ready- made first aid kit for dogs or make your own. Keep A Few Days’ Worth Of Water And Food On Hand An airtight container with a few days of food and a few gallons of water in your kit area will alleviate the stress of forgetting food for your dog. Don’t forget collapsible bowls for eating and drinking. Stay On Top Of Medication Refills A disaster is not the time to run low or completely out of crucial medication! See if your vet has samples or can give an extra refill to keep on hand. Check expiration dates periodically. Make a copy of prescriptions and dosages in case you need medication filled elsewhere. Keep a backup leash, blanket or towel, pet waste bags, a flashlight, a travel crate, non-toxic, pet-friendly cleaning supplies for both your pet and any messes/accidents, a few toys and treats, and even a shirt with your scent in your kit. Our pets will be scared and will need comfort, too. Providing them with familiar scents or a favorite toy can help them stay comfortable, and a travel crate will give them a secure, safe space away from the chaos and help you transport them to safety. Article gathered from https://www. pawrade.com/resource/pawrade- cares/how-to-make-a-pet-disaster- preparedness-plan
proving your animal belongs to you • A picture of you and your family with your pet • Latest health certificate or vet report with up-to-date vaccination information • Updated microchip information • Medication prescriptions • Veterinarian office information • Boarding facility clearance • Training certifications • Letters from doctors for emotional support animals • Any other critical information you wrote out in your list or document above Entrust Someone As A Backup Caretaker Whether you choose a friend, relative, or neighbor, share your plan for keeping your pets safe in case you are away or separated when a disaster strikes. This may involve giving them a key to your home, showing them where to access food, and leaving a copy of important vet numbers and other information with them when you are not there to care for your pets yourself. Practice Evacuation Drills With Your Pets It’s great to be prepared, but it’s more important to involve your dog in evacuation drills. Running through potential scenarios will help you and your pet know what to expect and
your pet in a natural disaster, it’s time to build an emergency kit for pets. Definitely don’t wait till the last minute to make one or assume you don’t need one, even if you think you live in an area that does not experience a lot of natural disasters. It only takes one spark to start a house fire or one freak weather event to destroy a town, and you want to be prepared no matter what the risk level may be. Whether you are sheltering in place or evacuating, assembling a pet emergency preparedness kit will take a lot of stress off your hands in moments of chaos and uncertainty. Choose A Designated Place For Your Dog Disaster Kit Every member of your family starting with older children and up should know where to find your kit. Place your
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 35
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