Disaster Checklist for Pets

 

Do your Homework! If you plan to evacuate with your pet, research early to locate pet-friendly places. Local and state health and safety regulations do not permit the Red Cross to allow pets in disaster shelters. Contact hotels and motels outside your local area to check their policies on accepting pets and restrictions on number, size and species. Ask if “no pet” policies can be waived in an emergency. Keep a list of “pet friendly” places, including phone numbers, with your disaster supplies.

If you are not evacuating with your pet, make sure you find a boarding facility that is Hurricane Rated. Make a list of emergency veterinary clinics and include 24-hour phone numbers.

 

Microchip! The simple procedure ensures you will be re-united with your pet if he/she    becomes lost and is turned in to a shelter or vet clinic! Tags & collars can fall off, but microchipping is permanent! Stop by the Houston  Humane Society’s low cost, full-service clinic to get your pet microchipped.

 

Take a current photograph of your pet! In the event your pet becomes lost, this will help the shelters identify your pet. Most people don’t have a current photo of their pet(s)!

 

Waterproof your pet’s records! Be sure to store a copy of your pet’s medical information in a waterproof Ziploc bag!

 

Get a Carrier! Make sure you have a sturdy, size appropriate carrier for each of your  animals. Carriers should be large enough for your pet to stand and turn around comfortably.

 

STOCK UP!  Make sure you have enough pet food and ample supply of any medication your pet may be taking for up to 2 months! The disaster may not last that long, but there may be backorders from vendors due to other area needs.

 

Make a Pet Emergency Preparedness Kit!  Keep your pet’s essential supplies in sturdy containers that can be easily accessed and carried (a duffle bag or covered trash containers, for example).

Your kit should include:     

Medications and medical records (stored in a waterproof container) and a First Aid kit

Sturdy leashes, harness, and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure your animals can’t escape

Food, drinkable water, bowls, cat litter/pan, and manual can opener

Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets

Pet bed or toys if easily transportable.

 

Click here for an easy to print or download version of this information to post on your fridge and share with friends and family!