The news reports about Hurricane Bill (http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1918204,00.html) reminded us that it’s hurricane season, which in turn got us thinking about disaster preparedness. It’s a great idea to have an emergency plan your family, but it’s important to also include your pets in your preparations. Follow these tips from the ASPCA for safeguarding your dog or cat during a crisis:

* Post a rescue alert sticker in a window. The sticker will let rescue workers know that pets are inside your home. Be sure it lists how many and what kinds of pets you have and your vet’s name and phone number. To get a free decal, go to aspca.org and search for “rescue sticker.”

* Decide where your pets will go if you’re evacuated. Not all disaster shelters accept pets, so arrange for a safe haven ahead of time.

Here’s how to find one:

• Ask your vet for advice and a list of boarding kennels and facilities that can house your pet during a crisis.
• Call your local animal shelter and ask if they provide emergency shelter.
• Decide on a friend or relative outside your area who will temporarily take your pet in the event of an evacuation. Be sure it’s someone you trust to care for your animal and that they’re comfortable with the responsibility.

* Put together a pet emergency kit. Consider including these items:

• Pet first-aid kit (ask your vet what to include)
• 3 to 7 days’ worth of dry or canned pop-top food (be sure to refresh this supply so food doesn’t go bad)
• For cats: Litter; aluminum roasting pans (to use as disposable litter trays)
• Garbage bags
• Feeding dishes
• Harness and leash
• Photocopies of medical records and a two-week supply of pet medications
• A week’s supply of bottled water
• A sturdy crate for each pet (include on the carrier: your pet’s name, your name and contact information and the name and phone number of a friend or relative who can care for your pet when you can’t be reached)
• Blanket
• Recent photos of your pet (in case you become separated)
• Toys (for cats and dogs)

* Make sure pets wear ID tags at all times. Your pet’s tag should list its name, your name and phone number and any serious medical conditions. Consider having your pets microchipped, which is a more permanent form of identification.

For more advice, go to aspca.org/pet-care/disaster-preparedness.

SEE ALSO:
Make you own pet toys
Travel safely with your pet
Is Oprah’s dog right for you?

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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