It’s always important to have a disaster preparedness plan in place for your loved ones in the event of a fire, tornado, hurricane, or other natural disaster. However, it’s crucial that you include your pet in that plan. During Hurricane Katrina, I saw firsthand what can happen to animals during these catastrophes. Far too many dogs and other pets were stranded and never reunited with their people; many others starved to death or drowned. Having a preestablished protocol for such situations can help ensure that every member of your family, including the furry ones, stays safe and sound.
Here are some things you can do:
• If you have to evacuate your home, try your best to never leave your pet behind. If at all possible, take her with you or arrange other accommodations. Many disaster shelters will not accept pets, so keep that in mind; know of pet-friendly motels or hotels that you might stay in, a boarding facility or a veterinarian who will take your dog, or relatives or friends who will pet sit in a pinch.
• Make sure your dog is microchipped and always wearing her identification tags.
• Put together a pet emergency preparedness kit—assemble your dog’s food, bottled water, bowls, any medication your dog takes, and a leash in a sturdy bag or container. Include a good recent photo of your dog, in case she gets lost during an emergency. Keep this kit, along with your dog’s first aid kit, somewhere safe and easily accessible so you can bring it with you if you have to leave your home in a hurry (or head to a safe room in your house during, say, a tornado).
• Run through a fire drill with your family and include your pet as part of it.
• Consider purchasing a pet rescue window decal—a bright sticker you put on your home’s front window, which alerts emergency workers, policemen, or firefighters that you have a pet inside. The decals are available at pet supply stores and many online retailers.
• Learn more about disaster plans that include your pet at www.ready.gov and www.redcross.org. Being prepared can save your dog’s life.
