English: dog in a soft crate Taken by Elf (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I have been with the SPCA for the last ten years. I have some amazingly talented people that I am fortunate enough to work with. This list was compiled by Patricia Kendall just to make sure I give credit where it belongs.

With all of the tornados, earthquakes and a horrible fire season does everyone have what they need to take care of your pets in an emergency. They are furry family members and they need their own emergency kit. Here is a list of things that you will need….

Disaster Preparation for Pets:
Crate– Have a crate for each pet in your home. In the event of an emergency, it will be a safe, secure place for them to be. Ideally, you should have your pet crate trained, so they are used to be in a crate. This will help to alleviate some stress for your pet during an emergency.

 

English: dog in a wire crate strapped into a car for safe traveling Taken by Elf (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Food– Have at least a 3 day supply (1 week is preferred). If you have canned food, be sure to include a manual can opener.
Water- Same as food, keep 3 days worth, but a week is preferred.
Vaccine Record- Keep an updated copy of your vaccine records, vet information, a list of medications, and medical and/or behavior issues.

Medication– Keep a week’s worth of medication in your emergency kit, just be sure to rotate it.
Pet bowls- Use a couple small bowls to use for food and water. There are collapsible styles available that are light and take up less room.

Trash/Poop Bags– Keep a roll of pick up bags handy. This will enable you to clean up after your pet and prevent any possible disease spread.

Bleach & Paper Towels– You won’t be sure what resources will be readily available in an emergency, so keeping bleach and paper towels will make clean up and sanitation easier.

Cat Litter & Litter Box- (If you have cats). They will be confined to a crate, so you will want a small pan and litter that will fit in your crate. Preferably it will take up no more than half of the crate.

Leash, Harness, and Collar- It is a good idea to keep a spare leash, collar, and/or harness in your kit for easy accessibility. You will have a backup if needed.

Toys– Having a toy or two available to your pet will provide a distraction and alleviate stress and boredom.
Current photo and description of your pets- Should you become separated from your pets you will need this to help identify them and provide proof of ownership.

Collar and Tag- A tag can provide immediate identification and help you re-unite with your pet quickly.
Microchip– Microchip your pet. It provides permanent identification. Collars can get caught and come off of your pet if they are trying to escape from somewhere. A microchip is registered with your contact information, and a secondary contact so your pet can find its way home.

Rescue Alert Sticker– These stickers are placed in a front window of your home and notify emergency personnel of how many pets are in your home. If you use one of these, please keep them current.

Have a plan. Find a safe place ahead of time that you will be able to go with your pet in case you are evacuated. Make a plan with a friend or family member out of town that will be able to care for your pet in the event of a longer term displacement situation. Be sure to include their contact information on your vet/pet information list in your kit.

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