Over the past few months, we’ve all learned a little something about the importance of being prepared – just ask us about our toilet paper stash! As we enter into summer, leading to greater risks of natural disasters and loud, scary noises like fireworks and thunder, it’s important to focus on pet disaster preparedness as well.
June is National Pet Preparedness Month. We’ve identified a few steps you can take NOW, to be prepared in case of an emergency!
Make sure your pet’s microchip is up to date
When was the last time you thought about your pet’s microchip? If you’ve moved, changed your phone number, or gotten a new email address, be sure those changes are reflected on your pet’s microchip. This is a fast and easy way to increase the odds of reuniting with your dog or cat should they run away, get lost, be stolen, or otherwise disappear. An updated chip will give you peace of mind in case the worst happens.
Create a basic disaster kit
Create an evac-pack in case you need to leave in a hurry or hunker down without access to your pet’s daily supplies. Here’s a quick list of essentials, but be sure to tailor your disaster kit to your pet’s specific needs:
- Pet feeding dishes and enough food and water for at least five-seven days.
- A pet first aid kit with items such as cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape, scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol, saline solution, and a pet first aid reference guide.
- A two-week supply of medications and photocopies or a USB of medical records in a waterproof container.
- Cat litter box, litter, litter scoop, and pet waste bags.
- Clean-up supplies including pet cleaning solution or liquid dish soap and paper towels.
- Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and carriers to transport your pet safely.
- Recent photos of your pets (including ones that have you with them) in case you get separated and need to make a lost poster – and to prove they are yours once you’re reunited.
- A flashlight.
- A Blanket.
- Toys, treats, and anything that would make your pet feel more comfortable.
Be sure to rotate out the food, water, and medicine regularly so that it is not expired in case of an emergency.
Make a list of safe places your pet can stay
Whether you’ll need to evacuate your home with your pet, or would need someone to watch your pet as you deal with an emergency, it’s best to have a list created of pet-friendly places as one less thing to worry about during a stressful time. Identify local hotels that allow pets and nearby friends or family members that can help board. Be sure to add our Albia clinic to your list – we offer boarding!
Keep those names and addresses in your phone and print a hard copy just in case!
Let emergency workers and first responders know you have pets
If something happens to you or your home, let emergency personnel know about your pets. Place a sticker or small sign in a window by your front door alerting firefighters and rescuers about the number and type of pets that are in your home. Additionally, carry a pet alert card in your wallet (the first place emergency personnel look for your identification) that indicate the number of pets you have at home and emergency caregiver contact information.
Take your pet to the vet to prepare for any underlying health issues
Even if your pet appears healthy, routine blood tests are important for gauging your pet’s overall wellness and catching diseases at early stages. Bloodwork can tell us a lot about your pet’s organ functions, hydration, and blood cell and platelet counts, which can indicate illness even before symptoms occur. This month, we are offering 10% off bloodwork. Contact your preferred clinic to schedule your pet’s appointment today!
