Disasters and emergencies can come in many forms, and we can't always plan for them.  We can however help you to be as  prepared as possible.  Whether it be a fire, flood, severe storm, tornado or a medical emergency, there needs to be a plan in place for your family including your furry companions!

Have a BEFORE plan....

There are many situations that could happen at any time, any place.  Have a plan ready for your pets for any type of situation so you know they will be cared for and kept safe.

• Choose a designated friend, or family member that can access your home if you are unable to, and is familiar with your pets
• Ensure they are able to either stay with your pets if needed, or in the case of an evacuation, are willing to take your pets to safety and has access to their belongings
• All pets should have collars with identification tags with a contact number and name in case they are found at large
• Alert stickers are available that can be placed on your front exterior door, stating number and types of pets inside for emergency personnel
• Have a pet emergency kit prepared and in an accessible place

Emergency Kit Checklist

• Pet carrier, sturdy leashes, harness/collars
• Food and water for minimum of 5 days, and bowls
• Medications, first aid kit, vet records including clinic contact information
• Pet waste bags, cat litter, litter box and scoop
• Current photos, descriptions of pets including feeding schedules, medical or behavioral concerns
• Beds, blankets and toys if easily taken to reduce stress
• Your contact information and an emergency contact

In case of an evacuation....

Always plan to take your pets with you if you must evacuate in order to keep them safe.  Pets that are left during a disaster can easily be hurt, lost, or escape their home.  Even if you only intend on being away from home for a few hours, take them with you.  An emergency or disaster can easily change and you could be away from home longer than expected.  If an evacuation is planned, have a safe haven available for your pets if they are unable to stay with you.

Safe Havens

• Boarding Kennels: Know the locations of boarding facilities in your area, and their policy on emergency boarding.
• Animal Shelters: Some shelters will have available spots for pets in the case of an emergency. Locate your nearest shelter and ask about emergency intake policies.
• Hotels: Find hotels or motels in your area that have pet friendly accommodations.
• Friend or Family: Designate an emergency caregiver or foster home that can take your pets in during an urgent situation.

Sheltering at home....

At times you must wait out a storm or disaster in your own home.  In this case, make sure to have a plan of where to shelter and ensure you have the necessary supplies accessible to you.  Even though you are able to stay home, you still want to be able to know where your pets are, and keep them safe so they don't escape or get lost during an emergency.

At Home Safety Plan....

• Designate a safe area or room in your home.  This will be where all family including pets will stay together in the event of a severe storm or other disaster.
• Be sure to bring all pets indoors, including pets that may live outdoors.  Locate all pets and bring them in as soon as you are notified of an emergency. Keep dogs on leashes, and cats in carriers, and make sure they have identification in case of a lost pet.
• Put your emergency kit, including all food, water and meds needed in your designated safe area so you can access them easily.
• Keep all doors and windows closed.  Block off any pet doors, or vents that pets may be able to get out of.
• Stay tuned with your local radio or emergency station, stay indoors with your pets until it is safe to leave.

After The Storm....

Once it is safe to leave your designated area, or return to your home, be sure to keep your pets secure and safe while you assess the damage.  Keep your dogs on leashes and cats in carriers until you are able to deem it safe to get back to normal.  Pets can easily get lost, be confused and stressed after situations like this, and if they are left to roam loose they could escape or be hurt.  
When you try to return to a normal routine, be patient with your pets.  It could take them a while to get back to their regular schedule.  Also be prepared for differences in their behavior, as stress and anxiety can be a result of such situations and they will need some time to readjust.