Emergency Preparedness for Your Pet from Old Dominion Animal Health Center

By now most people have prepared for the snow/ice storm and the potential for lost power and frozen walkways, but, have you thought about your pet's needs?  If you have to leave your home, do not leave your pet behind as confusion and panic in a pet can take a toll physically.  

You don't want to start searching for important pet items in the cold or dark, so start now: 

• Have a leash, crate or carrier ready to go
• Pet's medical records
• Food (if canned, take a manual can opener)
• Bowls for food and water
• ID tags should be on the pet with cellphone numbers (remember you're not home)
• If your pet has a microchip, have the microchip number with you
• Litterbox, litter, and plastic bags
• Special toys and "blankies" for comfort
• Be sure any ice melters used say "PET SAFE"   
• Baby wipes work great for wiping off paws after walks 

If you have no power and no fenced yard, walk your dog on a leash at night as they (and you) may become disoriented in total darkness.

Some of this may seem unnecessary, but you may be staying in a hotel or with relatives and your pet could escape.

If you and your pet are in a situation where you are not able to stay together, please call us as we may be able to help.  Old Dominion Animal Health Center is staffed 24/7 and has a generator so all pets in our facility will receive the same standard of quality care.  Our emergency contact number (571-296-9253) will be checked periodically for pet housing emergencies.  This number is not for medical emergencies.  If your pet has a medical emergency please contact The Hope Center at 703-281-5121.