If Disaster Strikes, Are You Ready To Care For Your Animals?

Plan ahead and keep the "WHOLE" family safe in the event of an emergency or disaster.

  • Develop an Evacuation Plan:  Create a plan for your family and pets.  PRACTICE this plan - don't wait until the you have to evacuate.  Determine in advance several locations where you may go with your animals (i.e. family, friends, pet-friendly hotels/motels, etc.)
  • Create a "Buddy System" with a trusted friend or neighbor to evacuate your pets in case you are not home.  This person should be familiar with your pets, be able to enter your home if pets are inside, know your evacuation plan and where you keep our pet emergency kit.  It is also important to let them know where your pets may hide if frightened.
  • Sheltering-In-Place:  Designate a "Safe" room - an interior room that has no windows or doors leading to the outside.  Make sure you keep your pets under your supervision at all times.  Have your emergency pet kit with you.
  • Pet Identification:  VERY IMPORTANT.  Make sure your pets have some form of ID on them.  Consider microchipping them
  • Photos of You & Pets:  Have photos of you and your pets together.  Photos may help for reunification if you and your pet are separated.  Place a copy of the photos(s) in your emergency kit.  Many animals can look similar to each other due to breed type and color, so photograph any unique markings that may help with ID purposes.
  • Assembling Pet Emergency Kits:  Click here for more information
  • Vaccinations:  Make sure your pet(s) are updated with their vaccinations.  If they are placed in an emergency animals shelters, they may be housed in close proximity with animals that have not been vaccinated.
  • Pet Carrier/Crate:  Each of your pets should have an appropriately sized carrier.  Attach contact and pet information to the carrier.  Consider purchasing a pet carrier that is FAA-approved.
  • First-Aid Kit & Reference Book: Have a small first-aid kit available.  Common injuries are to paw pads, tail, and ears.
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Maps with evacuation routes