Disaster Preparation For Pets

September is Disaster Preparation Month. This is certainly a timely reminder, with Hurricane Idalia still on the radar. Hurricanes are far from the only type of disaster that can strike: fires, floods, and even earthquakes are all possibilities. In these situations, an ounce of prevention can be worth several pounds of cure. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA veterinarians, a local vet offers some advice on disaster preparation for pets.

Emergency Bag

We would recommend having an emergency bag made for your pet. This can also double as a travel bag and camping bag. In addition to food, treats, and medicine, you’d want to include a pet first-aid kit and some pet first-aid brochures or printouts. Other items you may want to add include towels, blankets, a spare leash and collar, dishes, pet wipes, and a tie line. Kitties should have litter and a litterbox, while Fido will need waste baggies. Add a muzzle as well: some shelters may require them.

Identification

Another key element of disaster preparation for pet owners? Make sure your furry pal is microchipped and wearing ID tags. Things can get extremely hectic and scary in a disaster, and even the most loyal pet may bolt if frightened. Remember to keep your information current in the microchip manufacturer’s database. GPS tags are also helpful, though they may not work if cell towers are down.

Preparation

One could say that the only good thing about hurricanes is the fact that we can see them coming. However, other disasters, such as tornadoes and fires, often strike without warning. It’s a good idea to have a few things ready, just in case. Keep a couple of weeks of your animal companion’s food, treats, litter, and medicine on hand, as well as plenty of bottled water.

Preventative Care

Keeping up with Fluffy and Fido’s wellness care is also important. If you have to go to a shelter, you may need to show proof that your animal companion is current on their vaccinations. Parasite control is important as well: if you end up in a shelter, your furry friend may be exposed to all sorts of other animals. Upload copies of your documents to the cloud, so you can access them from anywhere. You may also want to keep copies in your car.

Please contact us here at Westside Animal Hospital, your local Savannah, GA veterinarian, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!