In the wake of Hurricane Irene and in light of the fact that September is National Disaster Preparedness Month, we thought we would take a minute to talk about the importance of having a Disaster Plan for your pets.  When disasters or other emergencies strike (with or without warning) being prepared makes all the difference.  If you had to evacuate suddenly, would you be ready?  If you had to leave your pets unexpectedly with a friend or kennel, do you have everything you need?  Here are a few helpful hints to make sure that you and your pets are ready for whatever comes your way.

Disaster Planning/In case of an Emergency Checklist for your pet:

FIRST AID KIT
First aid kits for your pets are available online or you can put one together yourself!  They should include:

-Any medications your pet may be on (Be sure they are labeled clearly with dosing instructions.  Having at least a 2 week supply is recommended)
-Sterile gauze pads (3" x 3" and 2" X 2") and gauze bandage rolls (1" and 2")
-First-aid adhesive tape, 1" roll
-Cotton swabs (Q-tips)
-Tweezers
-Scissors
-Plastic freezer/sandwich bags
-Small bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide
-Styptic pencil or cornstarch (stems blood flow from minor cuts)
-Antibacterial ointment
-Antiseptic cleansing wipes
-Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol (For upset stomachs/diarrhea)
-A current pet first-aid book
-Eyewash
-Eyedropper
-Mineral oil (a lubricant and laxative when given by mouth)
-Digital or rectal thermometer in a plastic case
-Leather work gloves (to protect you from being bitten)
-Latex gloves
-Leash
-Thin rope
-Splint materials (tongue depressor, 12-inch wooden ruler or thick magazine)
-Pet safe shampoo

FOOD/WATER
You should have at least a 1-2 week supply of both.  Food should be stored in a waterproof container along with a dish, spoon, and can opener (if your pet eats canned food).  Collapsible food and water dishes are available at most pet stores and work great as well as save space!  Water should be stored in secure gallon sized containers.

ANIMAL CRATES/CARRIERS & LITTERBOXES
Crates/carriers should be large enough to allow your pet to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably.  Be sure it is clearly marked with the proper contact information along with any medical information that is relative (i.e. Diabetic, needs insulin)  Cats should have a carrier large enough for a litterbox and still have room to move around.  Small plastic litter pans work great.  Be sure to pack cat litter!  Shredded paper can also work in a pinch.  Pet safe cleaning supplies should be included in case a crate or carrier becomes soiled or dirty. 

VACCINE RECORDS/VETERINARY INFORMATION/PROOF OF OWNERSHIP
Keep only the most important documents such as proof of the most current vaccines your pet has had, medical conditions and proof of important test results (i.e. Feline FeLV/FIV, Canine Heartworm/Lyme, etc...).  Proof of ownership should include copies of any registration information, adoption papers, microchip number or any other identifying information.  Keeping a collar on your pet with identifying tags is great, however collars can fall off, be removed or in a lot of cases, aren't worn in the first place.  A microchip or tattoo is a permanent way to identify your beloved pet.  Having a current and clear photograph of your pet is also a good idea.  Also be sure to include the contact information of your veterinarian, and consider writing out a release statement authorizing medical treatments for your pet.  Be sure all of this paperwork is kept in a waterproof container.

EXTRAS:
-Blankets or bedding
-Collars, leashes, harnesses
-Brush/Comb
-Familiar Toys

If you have any questions or concerns or additional ideas about Disaster Preparedness please don't hesiate to contact us.