Cats, Canines & Other Critters In Crises?
Family Disaster Plans that Dont Include Pets are Incomplete
Release Date: September 17, 2005
Release Number: FNF-05-21
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When responding to disasters, human life always takes first priority. Pet owners need to be cognizant of these first-responder facts of life and plan accordingly. If you must evacuate your home, it's always best to take your pets with you, but plan ahead. The time to contact animal shelters for information on caring for pets during emergencies is before disaster strikes. Public emergency shelters often exclude pets for space and health reasons.
Animal Disaster Preparedness tips include:
- I.D. tags, leg bands, or tattoos to help reunite separated pets and owners.
- Keep a week's emergency supply of pet food, water, and other essential support items.
- Take several pictures of your animals and keep them with your important papers.
- If your regular veterinarian does not have a disaster plan locate one who does.
- Keep a pet first aid kit and first aid book in your animals' disaster kit.
- If you use a pet sitter while on vacation, discuss disaster plans and evacuation sites.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 14-Dec-2005 14:44:43