Your Pet Counts on You to Be Prepared in Case of a Disaster.
California is no stranger to evacuation situations like earthquakes, floods and wildfires. In an emergency you may need to leave your home at a moment’s notice. Your pets are even more dependent on you to take care of them in these situations.
How to Be Prepared in Case You Have to Evacuate Your Home with Your Pet.
No one wants to think about those “what-if” scenarios, but with recent wildfires we are all too familiar with the need to evacuate quickly. Being prepared with packed emergency supplies for you and your precious pets could be a lifesaver.
Remember, if you’re being told to evacuate your home, your pet needs to go, too. If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for them. Have a pet “go” bag ready. It is essential if you have to leave in a hurry. (See below for what it should contain.)
Make a plan now for where you will go with your pet. While more places allow pets than ever before, make sure you have a few places that you can count on to take in you and your pet.
Essentials Needed in a Pet Emergency Travel Kit:
Leashes, harnesses and a carrier. DO NOT be misguided into thinking it’s safe to put your pet loose in the car. For their safety and yours, they need a carrier and if your pet is a dog, they need a sturdy leash. In a chaotic situation, your pet will want to run.
Enough food for at least 2 weeks, their favorite pet treats, as well as drinking water, collapsible bowls, cat litter/pan and a manual can opener if you pet eats canned food.
Any medications your pet needs (2 weeks’ worth) along with copies of medical records, photos of your pet, microchip information and rabies certificate stored in a waterproof baggie.
Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets.
A familiar “comfort toy” that can calm your pet
Miscellaneous needs like towels, flashlight and bags to pick up pet waste
Don’t Forget a Pet First-Aid Kit.
In addition to your pet’s emergency go-bag, you need to have a first-aid kit especially for their needs—although many of the items can be used for you as well.
Gauze, cotton balls, scissors, rubber gloves, vetwrap, cotton swabs, bandages
Hydrogen peroxide (3%), which can clean wounds and also induce vomiting if your pet ingests something harmful.
Betadine antiseptic and/or Dermagel® spray that also has soothing pain relief ingredients
Blood clotting styptic
Eyewash
Pet grooming wipes
Instant warming and cold packs
Duct tape
If you feel you can’t take your pet with you, have a plan for what you will do. Leaving your pet alone is terrifying for your pet and potentially fatal.
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