In the event of a natural disaster in your area — such as a flood, earthquake or other severe storm — it’s important to have a response plan and adequate preparations in place to keep you and your family safe. Further, you must also consider what you will do with your pets.
After all, making arrangements for your beloved furry friends ahead of time will save you the hassle and heartache of determining how and where to care for them if you must evacuate in an emergency. Follow these tips for keeping your pets safe during a disaster.
Before a Disaster Strikes
- Generate a list of veterinary care facilities located outside of your immediate area in case any of your pets need medical attention.
- Ask friends and relatives living outside of your immediate area to look after your pets if you must evacuate your home.
- Generate a list of pet-friendly hotels outside of your immediate area and keep this information within your emergency supply kit.
When a Disaster Strikes
- Bring your pets indoors and get them under control.
- Make sure that your pets are wearing collars with current rabies vaccination tags and ID tags.
- If you can remain at home during the emergency, go to a safe area and stay together.
- Gather your disaster kit, which should at least include the following for your pets:
- Leashes or harnesses
- Extra food and water
- Pet medication (if needed)
- If you must evacuate your home, contact the friend or relative that has volunteered to look after your pets to make arrangements.
Have a Plan
Establishing a thorough plan for caring for your pets before a disaster strikes is key. If you do not prepare ahead of time, you may have to resort to a public shelter, in which animals are generally not allowed. Consequently, you may have to leave your pets at home to fend for themselves. For more personal risk management guidance and homeowners insurance solutions, contact us today at 818-302-3060.
