The key to safety in a disaster is a disaster plan. Make sure your pets are part of that plan. Create a disaster kit for your family and be sure to include items for your pets:
- KENNEL/ CRATE
- LEASH, COLLAR, ID TAG (with cell phone numbers!), HARNESS
- FOOD AND WATER BOWLS
- HEALTH RECORDS, including RABIES CERTIFICATE and other SHOT RECORDS
- CURRENT PHOTO OF PET
- NEWSPAPER (DOG) or LITTER BOX/LITTER (CAT)
- 3 BATH TOWELS
- GARBAGE BAGS
- WATER (DOG: 1 GAL per 10 POUNDS; CAT: ½ GAL)
- DRY FOOD (1-2 POUNDS OF FOOD /10 POUNDS)
- PRESCRIPTION AND OTC MEDICATIONS
- ANTIBIOTIC OR ANTIBIOTIC/CORTISONE OINTMENT (BAG BALM IS GREAT)
- BANDAGES (GAUZE and VET WRAP)
- ASPIRIN (Do NOT use in cats. Dogs can be given ½ to 1 aspirin twice daily for pain.)
- TWEEZERS
Suggestions:
- Put the kennel together as a trial then store and transport it disassembled.
- Use a towel to partially cover the sky kennel during the height of the storm for added security.
- Allow the pet to become familiar with the sky kennel at home and before a disaster.
- Grocery store plastic bags make excellent pooper-scoopers.
- Avoid excess bedding, as it may become soiled and difficult to clean during a disaster.
- A chain and stake may be useful to secure a dog if the family must use a temporary shelter.
- Dry pet food is much easier to transport and use than canned food during a disaster.
- Make arrangements now to stay with friends or relatives in the event of an evacuation.
