Emergencies, "Code Red's, and Natural Disasters

It's something we often don't think about until it happens.  Floods.  Terrorist Attacks with strict travel restrictions.  Chemical leaks & Evacuations.  Personal emergencies.  These things can be upsetting to most of us, but advanced preparation can be your key to keeping your family happy and safe.

MAKE THE CALL

Before disaster strikes, get prepared by calling your counties emergency program manager or building inspector's office to find out which types of natural disasters are likely to occur in your area.

Start a relationship with local veterinarians, pet sitters, and kennels to see if they will admit or care for your pet should an emergency occur.  Many vets will allow you to place credit card information and permission for care on file in case your pet needs emergency care and is brought in by a pet sitter or emergency worker.

Locate local hotels and motel and find out which will allow pets during an emergency situation.

Remember, most shelters, including the American Red Cross, do not allow pets do to sanitation regulations.

PACK A PREPARATION BAG

Check to see that you have all the items you are going to need in a disaster, and put the items in a place where they can be quickly located.  The list on the left of this page will give you a good start.

Add people items the list as needed.  Common necessities include over the counter medications, 2 spare house keys (be sure to test quarterly!), sunglasses and eyeglasses, address book of family and friends, and an emergency credit card.

PREPARE YOUR PET

Your pet doesn't need to be an expert at traveling, but if you or an emergency worker cannot catch your pet or keep a terrified animal confined in a crate it will be difficult to give it proper care.  If you have a timid or aggressive pet, work with a trainer to better socialize the animal to strangers.  Teach all of your pets to welcome carriers (many pets will respond well to getting treats in their pens) and to be calm and comfortable in the car.

Many emergency organizations have a policy against evacuating and rescuing pets.  Other groups have strict guidelines.  A pet that can be easily caught, handled, and confined to a crate for transportation is much more likely to be rescued - and more likely to avoid being traumatized - than a pet that has not been prepared.

For further assistance, you can request pet emergency plans from:

Pet Tech
The Official Pet First Aid Provider for PSI
(619) 589-7475

The American Humane Association
1-800-227-4645

United Animal Nations
(916) 428-2457