How To Keep Your Pup Safe During An Emergency

Emergency evacuations are something we never want to think about, but always need to be prepared for. And being prepared means including your furry family members in your plans.  To help keep your pup safe, we want to share a few tips and suggestions to prepare you and your pup to escape safely in case of emergency.

1. Create a go bag FOR YOUR PUP.

Keep a Dog emergency kit or “Go Bag” with supplies specifically for your dog.  Pack a sturdy leash, spare collar or harness, collapsible dog bowl, blankets, copies of veterinary records and poop bags.  Also, always have a 5-gallon jug of water set aside for your pup.

 

2. MAKE A CHECKLIST

It’s easy to forget things in an emergency, but lists remove any indecision. So, make a checklist of items that aren’t stored with your other emergency supplies, such as your pet’s food (in an easy to transport container), crate and medicines.  If food or medicines require refrigeration, be sure to include a small cooler in your emergency supplies and always keep an ice pack in your freezer.

 

3. PLAN YOUR ROUTES

Develop a plan for where you’ll go if you have to leave your home abruptly.  Remember that many shelters and hotels won’t take animals, so be sure to know where you’ll stop for the night.  Find friends, relatives or pet friendly establishments in all directions and keep them on a printed list in your emergency kit.  If you’re in a bind, local shelters or rescues can often care for pets temporarily during an emergency.  But many will require vaccination records, which is why you need a copy in your emergency kit.
  
And the last tip is to practice.  It may feel a little strange but taking a half hour once a year to practice gathering and loading your emergency supplies into your car, including your pup, can make all the difference when time is of the essence.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and visit our site for a full list of essentials to pack for your sidekick.