Disaster Plan for Pet Owners

Before the disaster, be prepared:

• Make sure your pet wears a properly fitted collar/harness with a current license and ID tag. Cats can wear a break-away collar and ID tag.

• Keep one leash for each dog you have. Place the leash in an easy-to-grab area.

• Acquire a pet carrier or crate for each pet and allow your pet to become accustomed to the carrier.

• Stock up on food for 3-7 days.

• Stock up on plastic bags and disinfectants to clean up pet waste.

• Make a disaster kit for your pet, which includes all of the above.

Disaster Kits for Your Pets:

• 3-7 days of dry food

• Jugs of water

• Non-tip bowls for the food and water

• An extra collar and leash for dogs

• Extra medicine your pet needs

• Copies of license, rabies, and health records (keep these and the medicine in a sealed plastic bag).

• Extra toys

• A small blanket or an old tee-shirt

• A sturdy carrier or crate

Everything, except for the carrier, can be kept in a large, canvas tote bag or backpack for easy storage and quick retrieval. This can be adapted for any type of pet. Just make a list of your pet's daily needs and include it in their disaster kit.

What to do After the Disaster:

• Approach and handle your pets in a calm, quiet manner, as they may be upset and confused.

• Examine your pets for any injuries.

• If you have to evacuate and cannot take your pet with you, leave them in the house in a safe area. Make sure they have water and dry food available for the length of time you will be gone. Check with your local shelter as they may be able to house your animal for you.

If Your Animal Becomes Lost After a Disaster:

• Check with the local animal shelter every day. Sometimes animals will hide for several days.

• Check the area or neighborhood by driving slowly or walking and calling your pet by name.

• Post flyers with a description and photograph of your pet.

• Check with local veterinarians and emergency animal clinics.

While it is our hope that you and your pet will never face a disaster, having these steps and kit prepared, can make the difference between a situation being catastrophic or under control.