June 06, 2009 2 Comments

With all the talk about pandemics I thought it was time to lighten up just a bit. Let’s talk about another of our family members today, our pets. As treasured family members they are often forgotten in our preparations. We won’t go into specifics of a given disaster today but there are some things in general which we should be doing right now.

1. Keep a collar, current license and up-to date ID tags on your pet at all times. Consider having your pet micro-chipped.

2. Make sure your pet is comfortable being in a crate, box, cage, or carrier for transport. Now is the time to get your pets accustomed to being caged. They may not like it at first but they will soon realize that you do come back and you will rescue them. Waiting until an emergency will only add more stress for both of you.

3. Keep an current list of trusted family and friends who are willing to assist with your animals in case of an emergency. Be sure at least one does not live in your neighborhood in case there is a disaster which causes an evacuation.

4. Keep pets safe always. Tighten and secure latches on birdcages. If birds are hanging be sure the hanger is sturdy. Secure aquariums on low stands or tables. Remove poisonous plantings around the yard.

Every family member needs a 72 hour kit, even pets. Include:

1. Sturdy leashes and pet carriers. A pillowcase is a good option for transporting cats and other small animals in a pinch.

2. Muzzles for dogs.

3. Food, and water for at least one week.

4. Treats for between meals and to use to calm down your pet,

5. Non-spill bowls for both food and water. A manual can opener and plastic lid for opening and saving left over food.

6. Plastic bags, litter box and litter, and a scoop, for the obvious clean ups.

7. Recent photos of each pet, one with family members. If you should become separated and need to claim your pet a picture with you cuts down on the time it takes. A picture on the pet alone is good to post if you are searching for a lost one.
   

8. Emergency contact information for your vet, local veterinary hospitals and animal shelters.

9. Copy of your pet’s vaccination history and any medical problems.

10. Extra medications your pet is taking, enough for a week.
    

11. A toy. Pets will be stressed and restless too so provide them with an outlet just as you would a child.

Also, include your pet in your food storage and water storage plan. Make it your goal to have a three month supply of the foods they eat in your General Store. Pets will be quarantined with you during a pandemic quarantine so be sure you are able to meet their needs for up to two months of isolation.

Before the Disaster, Food storage, Our General Store

Permalink Comments RSS