Emergency plans should always include your pets. Veterinarian Dr. Shelby Neely shares some basics of pet preparedness planning.
by Dr. Shelby Neely
Every year in June, National Pet Preparedness is promoted to encourage pet parents to be prepared if a natural disaster occurs. As a vet, I always keep the well-being and safety of pets in mind. That’s why I urge people to include their pets in any emergency planning.
It’s essential to assemble an emergency bag with necessary items for your pets to grab quickly should you need to evacuate. Also, make plans with your friends, neighbors, or family members to quickly get your animals if you cannot, and be willing to care for your pets if you are unable to in an emergency.
In observance of National Pet Preparedness Month, I’ve prepared this short guide on preparing to take the best care of your pet in an emergency. An emergency could be a natural disaster, a medical emergency, or any unexpected event where your pet’s well-being could be at risk. Being prepared can make all the difference in the outcome.
Pet Emergency Kit
- Use a waterproof container to hold the necessary supplies for your kit.
- Pack food and water bowls and include a three-day water and food supply.
- Don’t forget your pet’s medications. Include a copy of your pet’s medical records and your veterinarian’s information, the closest emergency room information, and the poison control hotline.
- Include a first aid kit (see below).
- A favorite blanket or pet bed should be part of the kit. The scent of something familiar can be very comforting.
- Pack another comfort item, such as a favorite toy.
- Remember to include plastic bags, a pooper scooper, and cat litter.
First Aid Kit
- Gauze pads and bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Sterile saline solution
- Antiseptic wipes
- Hydrogen peroxide 3%
- Tweezers and scissors
- Thermometer
- Antibiotic ointment
- Disposable gloves
You could assemble your own kit or purchase a Pet First Aid kit from Allivet. Our kit comes assembled in a sturdy plastic case, or you could a first aid kit for pets packed in a convenient fanny pack.
Pet Medications
In addition to a well-stocked first aid kit, you should also keep at least a week or two of your pet’s medications, including parasite preventatives, on hand. Allivet AutoShip makes it easier with automatic delivery. For Rx medications, talk to your vet about authorizing an extra 30-day supply, so you can always have extra in your emergency kit.
Evacuation Plan
If you have to leave your home, make plans for bringing your pets. Research hotels in your area that allow pets and contact them now to ensure that they allow the number and type of pets you have. If possible, make reservations in advance. For example, if a hurricane is heading your way, make reservations as soon as you think there is a chance you’ll have to evacuate. Of course, you won’t always have advance notice, but take advantage of it when you do. Also, find out if there are any pet-friendly shelters nearby. Keep this information in a place where you can access it easily when needed.
Keep carriers, crates, and extra leashes in a place where you can grab them easily should there be a need to evacuate. Determine the best routes from your home to evacuate, plan multiple routes, and keep these directions with your other emergency supplies.
Microchips and ID Tags
Microchipping your pets is one of the best things you can do. Should you become separated from your pet, a microchip provides the best chance of being reunited. Once microchipped, always ensure that the information connected to the chip, including address and phone numbers, are kept up to date.
Stay Informed
Sign up for alerts from your local authorities and weather alerts. Purchase a battery-operated radio and batteries for use during an emergency.
Preparing for an emergency may seem like overkill—until an emergency occurs. Staying prepared, and including your pet in your emergency plans, will help you deal with unexpected situations.
Dr. Shelby Neely is a Penn graduate who works for Banfield Pet Hospital. When she’s not treating pets, she also works as a freelance writer. Before joining Banfield, Dr. Neely owned a very successful feline-only practice. She was also the creator and author of the award-winning Ask The Cat Doctor website. Dr. Neely considers her three successful children and her veterinary career her most significant achievements. She lives in King of Prussia with her two adorable cats and loves to visit her four granddogs.
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