3 Days 3 Ways

PETS PREPAREDNESS

Animals play an important part in many of our lives. Whether it is a family cat, a service dog, cows and horses, or a pet snake, they will require extra planning before a disaster strikes in order to keep them safe during an emergency. Regardless of what kind of animals are a part of your family, you should include them in your emergency plans and make sure that you have set aside the appropriate supplies to keep them comfortable and contained during emergencies.

Just like people our furry and feathered friends need to have enough food and water stored for at least 3 days. Be sure to include other supplies in your emergency kit to help keep your animals safe. The following checklist will get you started but remember that you are the one who knows your pet best and you should pack the supplies that will keep your animal comfortable and safe during an emergency.

3 days worth of food and water (at minimum)
leash and collar or suitable carrier to keep animals safe and in your control
medications and medical records
current photo in case you are separated from your animal
identification tag – be sure that your animal wears one at all times and that the information is current

In the event of an emergency, you should do your best to keep your animal with you. This means that if you have to evacuate, take your animals with you. Most shelters will not allow animals unless they are service animals. Be sure to make arrangements ahead of time about where to go with your animals if evacuation is necessary. Contact out of town friends or family to see if your pet could stay with you in their home and contact hotels out of the area to see if they allow pets or if their pet policies would be waived in the event of an emergency.

As part of your family emergency plan you should make arrangements for you pet in case you are not at home when a disaster strikes. Plan ahead with a trusted neighbor who is familiar with your pets to get them from your home and bring them to meet you at a predetermined place. Be sure that the person is comfortable with your pets, has a key to your house, and knows where to find the animals and their disaster supplies.

Planning for our animals will help them survive a dangerous and frightening situation. In the links below you will find more information and suggestions for planning for animals for emergency situations.

Helpful Links:

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Office of Emergency Management

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