Animals left behind in disasters can become a risk for emergency responders, and be at risk themselves of health complications, and/or getting lost, injured or killed. That is why family preparedness plans need to account for the four-legged and winged members of the household. Preparing for pet evacuation and sheltering may seem complex at first, but it is as easy and effective as preparing for any emergency your family may encounter. Begin by identifying what needs to be in your pet's evacuation kit: vet records that show immunizations and health conditions; medications; identification and microchip documentation; photographs of you and your pet; water, food and bowls; and comforting items such as blankets and toys. Next, identify where your family can go with your pets and how you would get there. In most states, trained guide dogs for the blind, hearing impaired or disabled will be allowed to stay in emergency shelters with their owners. Check with local emergency management officials for more information. Otherwise, contact your local animal shelter, humane society, veterinarian, or emergency management office for information on caring for pets in an emergency. Find out if there will be any shelters prepared to take pets, or if your veterinarian will accept your pet. You may also contact motels and hotels in communities outside of your area to find out if they will accept pets in an emergency. Either way, you will need a method of transporting your pet, such as a cage or crate, and a leash. Tips to prepare your pet for an emergency, including what to do during and after a natural disaster, are available on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) web site. General information on preparing your pets for emergencies is also available from Ready.gov. You may also wish to view information on the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act. The PETS Act ensures that state and local emergency preparedness plans address the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals following a major disaster or emergency. Information on helping animals who were affected by natural disasters is also available. Finally, you may wish to view the following information: |
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