Disaster Preparedness Tips For Pet Owners

As we watch on television the devastation caused by tornadoes back East, it reminds us that here in California we too have our own natural disasters.

If an earthquake or wildfire strikes, are you prepared? Do your plans include your pets?

If you must evacuate, do not leave your pets behind. Instead, use the following tips to help keep your pets safe if and when disaster hits:

Assemble an emergency kit to meet your family pet’s basic needs for at least three days. Here are some suggested items to pack in the kit:

Keep a current photo of your pet in the kit along with your pet’s vet and medication records. Include information on the pet’s daily routine, words the pet knows, and other useful tips for anyone taking care of your animal in an emergency situation. Tell a designated person who knows where your pet’s information is stored, in case something happens to you.

A leash or harness.

Flip-top cans of pet food, enough to last over many days.

Several gallons of water.

Bowls for food and water.

Place medications in a waterproof container and label it with your emergency information.

A towel or blanket stored inside a plastic bag to ensure it stays dry; you may need to dry a wet pet or use it to make a bed.

If you own a cat, place a small bag of kitty litter in your kit; add some baggies for poop pickup.

Pet carrier.

Once you have your kit ready, there are other considerations. Know ahead of time where you will transport your pet in an emergency. Plan alternate destinations because some emergency shelters do not allow pets, and pet friendly hotels fill up fast.

Pets can easily lose their collars and IDs. A microchip implanted under the pet’s skin is a permanent identification. Keep in mind that a microchip will only reunite you with your pet if you’ve registered your current contact information. Be sure to notify the microchip company of any changes.

Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are current. A healthy pet is more likely to survive displacement and being housed with other animals.

Be sure to socialize and train your pet and make sure it knows how to walk on a leash and is comfortable riding in a carrier.

Help your pet to relax and stay calm. You will both weather the situation better!

Looking for a new pet? Check out the attached photo gallery of some wonderful animals available for adoption at Southwest Communities Animal Shelter, located at 33751 Mission Trail in Wildomar. Reach the shelter at 951-674-0618 or 951-506-5069, or visit their website at www.​animalfriendsofthevalleys.​com.