BE PREPARED!
We have prepared helpful information for our pet owners, should you be faced
with a disaster or emergency. The following information is from the ASPCA, AVMA
and Homeland Security.
Step 1. Prepare an Emergency Kit
The kit should be pre-packed and in a location where everyone knows. The contents within the kit should be reassessed regularly to ensure food, medicine and supplies have not reached their expiration date. Food: Pack a minimum of 3 days worth food in a seal container or plastic sack. If you pet eat canned food make sure the lids are pop top or place a can opener in the kit. It is recommended to rotate all foods at least every 2 months to ensure freshness. Remember to include a few plastic dishes or tupperware products to allow your pet to eat from. Water: Bottled water, for you, your family and your pet. Again, recommended amount is 3 days worth. First Aid Kit: Most common supplies included are: bandage material, isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol), saline solution, flea/tick medication, heartworm prevention, tape, scissors, latex gloves and hand sanitizer. See the ASPCA for guide book. Veterinary Papers and ID cards: Place a copy of all veterinary forms so that you are able to provide the vaccine status of you pet. Along with any additional medical condition your pet suffers from. Include a copy of all medications your pet is currently on. An ID card will help identify your pet in a shelter if it has been rescued. Crate, Pet Carrier, Collar, and Leash: When evacuating it is much easier to have your pet contained. Sanitation: Remember to include a litter box, litter, trash bags, gloves, and bleach. These will help clean and dispose of your pets waste.
Step 2. Plan Ahead
Know that common sense must be used and your safety is priority. During these situations it is common for animals escape a house or yard prior to the pet owner. Establish a location: Establish a location that all the family members know to meet. Research locations close to your area that may be able to provide housing for your pets. Many hotels and evacuation centers do not allow pets to stay. Locate all of the veterinary clinics and boarding facilities close to your location, have their contact information included. Neighbors and Family: Talk to your neighbors about your plan as well as their plans for emergency situations. Share pet information along with where your evacuation kit is located in the house. Talk with your family members for longer term care if needed. Microchip your pet: It is recommended to microchip all pets. The microchipping systems will help to provide immediate and life long identification of your pet. However, remember to update all your information every 6 month to 1 year. This information is essential to recovery of your pet.
Step 3. Stay informed and tuned in
Weather radio: It is recommended by the national weather service to have a weather radio in every house. They are battery operated and provide the latest alerts posted by the national weather service. Woodland West Animal Hospital has emergency static cling stickers the reception desk. Once applied to the door/window it provides notification on you have select number of animal present. This help law enforcement and the fire protection agency know. Please call Woodland West Animal Hospital with any question or concerns regarding your emergency/disaster plan or home emergency kit. Please call (918)299-1208.
Jana Bone, DVM
