Have you created a pet emergency kit? If not, you should get
something put together — just in case. When you start putting together
akit of pet emergency supplies, think about it just like you do with
your family’s emergency supply kit. Think first about the basics for
survival, particularly food and water. The following are tips from Ready.gov and should get you started on putting a kit together.
Food:
Keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container. Find healthy dehydrated and freeze-dried foods on our web site that would work well in your kit.
Water:
Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets, in addition to water you need for yourself and your family.
Medicines and medical records:
Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.
First aid kit:
Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate
for your pet’s emergency medical needs. Most kits should include cotton
bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and
tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcoholand saline solution.
Include a pet first aid reference book.
Collar with ID tag, harness or leash:
Your pet should wear a
collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet’s
emergency supply kit.
Important documents:
Place copies of your pet’s registration information,
adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clean
plastic bag or water proof container and also add them to your kit.
Crate or other pet carrier:
If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation a
crate or carrier is the best way to transport your pets and animals with you.
Sanitation:
Include pet
litter and litter box if appropriate,
poop bags,
newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine
bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs. You can use bleach as
a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water to one part bleach), or in an
emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 8 drops of regular
household liquid bleach per gallon of water, stir well and let it stand
for 30 minutes before use. Do not use scented or color safe bleaches or
those with added cleaners.
A picture of you and your pet together:
If you become separated from your pet during an
emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document
ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet.
Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and
distinguishing characteristics.
Familiar items:
Put favorite
toys,
treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.
Consider two kits
In one, put everything your pets will need to stay where
you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight,
smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get
away.