Pet Care During Emergencies

Pets are much like people in their reaction to their traumatic situations. They lose the familiarity of the environment if the physical aspects have changed. The scents have disappeared at times, and they have to re-orientate themselves. Helping them become re-orientated occasionally has to be assisted by the owners.  Pets can also be more aggressive after a traumatic situation, and so it is important to remember that the reliability of your animal’s temperament may not be predictable any longer. Pet care during emergencies can be dealt with much more smoothly if you have the following bases covered:

1. Keep your animal’s collar on, with an id tag, license if applicable, and a muzzle if necessary and an animal cage.
2. Pet vaccinations need to be up to date. If forced to leave your pet in an emergency shelter for animals, you may need to provide proof that your pet is properly vaccinated before they will take him/her. What a lousy time to realize you have missed this step.
3. Find out in advance what animal shelter might be available during emergency disaster situations. Does the humane society take in pets, does the vet have information to provide you? Rural areas may have less or more depending on each individual location.
4. Have adequate food and water for your pet, along with the containers – dog dish and water dish for example, especially if you are heading for an animal shelter. Have the medications they need, a list of their instructions in caring for the animal if something specific needs to be addressed, cage or carrier, rabies tag. Clean blankets, pet bed, cloths or towels, can opener, paper towels, as well as favorite toys of the pet.
5. When you return home, ensure power lines are not down and hazardous for your outdoor animals. Keep the pet on a leash if necessary for a while and take him/her for a walk to adjust to the change in environment if any. Stay calm and reassuring for your pet.

6. Know which hotels are pet-friendly. This may help you in your decision more quickly. Some pet-friendly hotels in North America – Holiday Inn are often pet-friendly, Travelodge, Staybridge Suites. – Did I mention this is a suite hotel??? Yes, that means more room for your animal and your or your family.

7. Have a pet carrier chosen ahead of time for your pet. Just because you normally leave them behind at a boarding kennel when you travel, doesn’t mean you don’t need to keep one on hand for emergencies. There are all kinds to look at and consider, depending on what size, style and price you are enthusiastic about or in need of.

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