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What would you do in the event of a major flood, man-made disaster, power outage, toxic spill, or health-related quarantine? Could you survive on your own for the first 72 hours after a major disaster or emergency?
The 72 Crew Awareness and Preparedness campaign is dedicated to helping you and your family Be Prepared . . . Not Scared. Click on Get Involved to learn how your community can be 72 Crew Certified.
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Pets
Pets are often full-fledged family members, and any family emergency plan must include them to be truly complete. Many shelters will not permit animals (with the exception of registered service animals), so it is especially important that you have a plan for your pets in case of an evacuation.
Remember:
- Make sure your pets all have licenses and ID tags.
- Ask local shelters and animal clinics if they provide emergency foster care.
- Arrange with neighbors to care for your pets if an emergency occurs while you are away from your home and cannot return.
- Know your pets' hiding places so you can find them easily if you need to evacuate.
- Transport pets in carriers or on leashes during an emergency; this makes them feel more secure.
- Bring all pets into the house so that you won't have to search for them if you have to leave in a hurry.
- Do not try and hold onto your pet during the shaking of an earthquake or explosion. Animals instinctively protect themselves and hide where they are safe.
- Animals react differently under stress. Outside your home and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. Transport cats in carriers. The most trustworthy pets may panic, hide, and try to escape or even bite or scratch.
- When you return home, give your pets time to settle back into their routines. Consult your veterinarian if any behavioral problems persist.
Additions to the Emergency Kit and Go Bag:
- A recent photo of your pets in case they get lost
- Sturdy leashes and/or carriers
- Food and potable water, for at least one week. Bowls, cat litter and pan, plastic bags, can opener and pet toys. These items may not be immediately available in animal shelters.
- Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, immunization records and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pets.
- Cat litter and box
- Pet toys
- Contact information for a veterinarian
- Medical information and records
- Any necessary medication
- Plastic bags for clean-up
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