As we all know, life throws curveballs and it is extremely important to be prepared.
For pet owners, it is also vital to know how to make sure your pet is 100 percent safe in an emergency. Just as we need to know the best way to care for our animals' health, there are quite a few quick and easy tips that will make sure we can care for them should an unfortunate, unforeseen event occur.
Scroll through below for a look at this exclusive list of emergency pet preparation ideas. I never even thought of most of these, but now, I will make sure I check each and every one of these off my list!
Our pets are relying on us to keep them safe, happy, and healthy. These tips will ensure they are taken care of no matter what comes their way.
Which of these preparation ideas will you be trying? What other emergency pet preparation suggestions do you have? Let us know in the comments!
Tip #1: Keep A Wallet Card
If something were to happen to you, it is important that others know to care for any pets you may have at home.
Keeping a pet card in your wallet can alert others that your cat or dog needs attention in your absence.
You can purchase these cards online or simply make one yourself.
A great message to put on the card is something like: "My dog is home alone. If I am sick or injured in an emergency situation, please contact the individual listed on the back of this card to care for my dog at home."
Tip #2: Keep Current Photos
In the event of a natural disaster, it is critical to have up-to-date photos of your pets, should you be separated for any reason.
It is doubly important to have those photos with you at all times, in the instance that you are unable to return to your home.
Make sure to keep a picture or two of your animal in your phone so that you can easily access it or share it if need be.
Tip #3: Familiarize Your Pet With Travel
Some pets are quite used to traveling, either by car or airplane.
But for those who have never been in a travel carrier or even around large groups of strangers, it may be extremely helpful to familiarize them with these situations.
During an emergency, things are already stressful enough for yourself and for your pet. So, it is important to make sure they will be comfortable in situations where travel is required.
Practice taking them out in a carrier case or bring them to slightly more crowded places where they can get used to things.
Tip #4: Get A Pet Fire Sticker
Should a fire or other emergency ever befall your home, it is important for rescue workers to know exactly what animals might be trapped or hiding in the house.
A "pet alert" sticker for your window is an easy way to relay this information if you aren't around or available to notify them yourself.
You can even request a free sticker online from the ASPCA!
Tip #5: Prepare A Pet Disaster Kit
When things get out of control during an emergency, it is important to have a pet disaster kit prepared to grab and take with you.
What types of things should you have inside your disaster kit?
Crucial items include: food, water bowls, a can opener, plastic bags, medications, medical records, leashes, pet toys, disposable litter trays, and current photos of your pets with descriptions.
Should it become necessary, you can simply grab your kit and be on your way, ensuring that you have the proper tools to care for your pet.
Tip #6: Know Safe Places For Pets
If an emergency occurs that requires you to leave your home, it is important to keep in mind that not all hotels or friends' homes will be welcoming to pets.
You should make a list of places, including disaster shelters, that will allow pets in the event of a natural disaster or other emergencies.
Knowing which hotels or friends will be willing and able to house you can save you from having to search when things are crazy or uncertain.
Tip #7: Keep Tag Info Up-To-Date
If you are separated from your pet for any reason, the only way they may be able to find their way back to your loving arms is if their tag information is 100% current.
Make sure that their collar features your current address and phone number.
If an emergency occurs, make sure your pet is wearing their collar, just in case you become separated during the chaos.
Tip #8: Plan To Evacuate With Your Pets
If you are required to evacuate your home for any reason, it is important that you evacuate your pets as well.
You never know if or when you will be able to return to your home, so take your pets with you.
It is vital to know that any situation that is too dangerous for humans is also too dangerous for our amazing pets.
Tip #9: Know The Safe Rooms In Your House
During a natural disaster, it is important to know which areas of your home are safe for you and your pets.
Always avoid any rooms that have windows or items on the walls that may fall, causing an injury.
Safe rooms to stay with your pet tend to be bathrooms or a storm cellar/basement.
Tip #10: Download the ASPCA App
According to the ASPCA, "The free ASPCA mobile app shows pet parents exactly what to do in case of a natural disaster.
"It also allows pet owners to store vital medical records and provides information on making lifesaving decisions during natural disasters."
Just download the app well in advance so that you never have to struggle to receive vital information during the middle of an emergency.
Being prepared in the unlikely event of an emergency can ensure that our incredible pets are properly taken care of!
Which of these preparation ideas will you be trying? What other emergency pet preparation suggestions do you have? Let us know in the comments.
Please SHARE this vital information with pet owners everywhere!
