Natural disasters can be extremely disruptive, destructive and dangerous for both humans and their companion animals. During an emergency, having a plan in place can be the difference between weathering a storm or a fur-ightful experience.
Here’s what pet owners can do to keep their four-legged family members safe.
Your grab-and-go kit should contain essential pet supplies for at least 5 days:
Also, keep up-to-date information in your kit:
Important: Keep emergency kit contents up to date! Replace food and water every six months, and ensure contacts and records are updated. Always remember to update microchip and pet tags when you move.
Wildfires are a fact of life in much of the American west. Flames can descend on a neighborhood quickly and without warning, leaving little time for residents to gather their pets and escape.
If you live somewhere that is prone to wildfires, you should have an evacuation plan that includes your pets.
Hurricanes, tropical storms and nor’easters can cause significant damage from high winds and flooding. Major storms tend to be tracked before they make landfall, so pet owners can prepare and plan for evacuation if needed.
If you live in the path of a major storm, here’s what you can do:
Tornadoes appear with little or no warning—so speed and preparation are super important when it comes to protecting your pets. If you live in a place where tornadoes are common, practice bringing your animals to your “tornado safety location” to iron out your emergency process before a storm approaches.
When a tornado warning is issued, take steps early to ensure you’re ready for anything.
Natural disasters can be scary for both pets and their parents. However, with the right prep, you and your four-legged family members have a good chance of staying safe together.