Evacuation Tips for Pets

Never leave your pet behind in an emergency if you can help it. Here are some tips for preparing your pets for an evacuation should disaster strike:

• You may need to leave your pet in a temporary shelter with limited cage space. Get a pet carrier or crate for each household pet. It should be large enough for the pet to stand up and turn around.
• Animals can be easily frightened by loud noises or unusual circumstances and want to bolt to safety. Have a leash and muzzle on hand to help control your dog. Pack a harness for your cat.
• Pack newspaper, plastic bags, wet wipes, cleansers, and kitty litter to deal with pet wastes.
• Have a sufficient amount of pet food, bottled water, food bowls, and any medications your pet is taking
• Be sure that your pet's vaccinations are current. A temporary shelter may not take your pet unless you can provide proof that its shots are current. Gather your pet's medical records, ID records (such as Rabies tag number and microchip number), a current photo and detailed description of your pet and pack in a waterproof bag.
• Make sure that your pet has an ID on his collar that has current information. Any temporary information, such as cell phone number or number of where you are staying, should be taped to the back of the ID tag.
• Ask local animal shelters or veterinarian clinics if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets in a disaster. If they do not, ask if they can recommend other resources, such as animal sanctuaries, boarding facilities, or farms that may be taking pets in during a crisis.