The Federal Emergency Management Agency via its Ready.gov website has tips for pet owners to keep their pets safe in an emergency.
The full list of FEMA tips is available here.
Some key tips include identifiying hotels and motels that are pet-friendly if you have to leave your home.
FEMA's tips to shelter your pet include:
- If you have to leave but can't take your pet: "Confine your pet to a safe area inside - NEVER leave your pet chained outside! Leave them loose inside your home with food and plenty of water. Remove the toilet tank lid, raise the seat and brace the bathroom door open so they can drink. Place a notice outside in a visible area, advising what pets are in the house and where they are located. Provide a phone number where you or a contact can be reached as well as the name and number of your vet."
- "Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet's medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current. Include copies in your "pet survival" kit along with a photo of your pet."
Some items you should have on hand in addition to food and any medication needed are:
- Newspapers (for sanitary purposes)
- FEMA suggests to "Feed the animals moist or canned food so they will need less water to drink."
- "In an emergency, you may have to take your birds with you," says Ready.gov. "Talk with your veterinarian or local pet store about special food dispensers that regulate the amount of food a bird is given."
- A first aid kit
- Collar with ID, harness or leash
- Crate or pet carrier
You can also print out the attached PDF above for your emergency kit.
