Natural Disaster Preparation for Pet Owners

Each year many pets are lost due to natural disasters and not returned because they are not properly identified. Many pets can also be injured or become sick during natural disasters. Knowing this information, it is important to put an emergency plan into action so you can protect your pet and make it easier for them to be returned to you if they become lost

Here are some other tips that can help in preparation for a natural disaster

• Do not leave your pet if you have to evacuate. If you must evacuate, leave enough food and water for 48 hours, and post a note for rescue workers
• Have a leash and pet carrier available
• Keep the names and numbers of emergency vet care handy
• Keep the names and numbers of local shelters. Call these first if your pet does get lost
• Have your pet micro chipped and well identified
• Pack a pet first aid kit. Include the following items in this kit
1. Vaccine records
2. Pet food and water
3. Any prescriptions your pet is taking
4. Adhesive tape, bandages, cloth and gauze
5. Muzzle for dogs

These tips should cover most natural disasters but it is a good idea to get more information about the natural disaster that is most prevalent in your area. For more information contact your local vet or Humane Society. You can also visit www.avma.org, the site of the American Veterinary Medical Association, for more tips on pet safety.