Pet Preparedness for the Unexpected
by Casey Hampf
By: Judy Hamontre, AVHS Vice Chair
The winds are relatively calm today as I write this article, but they were strong several days in a row causing the weather service to issue red flag warnings. Forecasts show more days ahead with winds at 20-30 mph and gusts over 40. Add to those winds, our dry conditions, and we all know the fire risk moves to high. We in Colorado know all too well the devastation of those fires.
These fires along with so many other natural disasters have alerted us to the need for disaster preparedness, plans that also include our pets. For the animals in our homes, there are several different potential emergencies that warrant our attention and preparation.
Emergencies come in many different forms. There are natural disasters, such as fires, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. A house with pets home alone can have a gas leak, fire or explosion. Any of us can have an unexpected illness or injury requiring hospitalization, a place where our pets cannot go.
Each situation is different and requires different measures to see that our animals are safe and provided with the best possible care.
A good place to start your pet preparedness for disasters is on-line. One of the best sites for information is aspca.org. You will find a comprehensive account of the simple steps you can take now to protect your beloved pets in the event of any unexpected circumstances.
These guidelines cover a variety of situations that could impact your cats and dogs and also provide special considerations for horses, birds, reptiles and other small animals.
A few of their key suggestions are:
Post a “Rescue Alert Sticker” on or near your front door to let people know pets are inside your home. Include the species and numbers. Also include the name and phone number of your vet. If you have evacuated with your pets, mark evacuated on this sign.
If at all possible, try not to leave pets behind. They can become trapped, injured or lost. Have their leashes, carriers and crates close by for fast evacuation.
Select a safe haven now for you and your pet outside your immediate area. Shelters and kennels open their doors but need our help to not become overwhelmed. Remember that many hotels and motels are not pet friendly.
Secure a caregiver for your unexpected absences, which includes you being away and becoming ill or injured or your being away and unable to get to your home in case of an evacuation. It should be someone you trust, lives close, has access to your house, is usually home and knows your pets. Be certain they know the location of everything your pet needs, including medical records.
Prepare a “Go-Kit.” This can include: a 3-7 day supply of food and water including bowls for both; a two-week supply of medicines in a water-proof container; medical records and a good photo; a signed veterinary medical treatment authorization; extra collar with ID and leash, pet first-aid kit; crate or sturdy carrier for each pet with padding; disposable litter trays and scoop-able litter; a few favorite toys and liquid dish-soap, disinfectant and disposable garbage bags for clean-up. Be certain that everyone in your family knows where this is located and keep anything that expires updated.
Hopefully you will never face an emergency requiring evacuation from your home nor care of your pet in your absence, but a few steps now will keep you prepared and your furry friends safe.
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