How to Plan for a Pets in Case of an Emergency

By eHow Health Editor

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Pet photos
Pet first-aid kit
ID tag

Plan Ahead With a Pet First-Aid Kit

Step 1:
Purchase a pet first-aid kit from a website like PetSmart (see Resources below).
Step 2:
Create your own customized pet first-aid kit. Put it in a portable case, and keep it accessible in case of emergency.
Step 3:
Include a rectal thermometer, cotton balls, hydrogen peroxide and scissors in your kit. Tweezers and antibiotic sprays are also useful items.
Step 4:
Put a few days of pet food in your first-aid kit too. If a disaster leaves you without food, your pets will be out of luck.
Step 5:
Insert a supply of medications your pet needs in case you can't get to a vet.
Step 6:
Keep lists of pet hospitals and pet-friendly hotels near you. In case of a disaster, shelters will not allow you to bring your pets in for sanitation reasons.
Step 7:
Place a recent photo or two of your pet in the kit, in case you need to find it after an emergency.

Tag Your Pet

Step 1:
Opt for the latest in pet ID technology by having a microchip put in your pet. Vets can place the chip under your pet's skin during an appointment. If your pet is lost, shelters can scan the chip to get your contact information.
Step 2:
Tattoo your pet with an ID number. Once you register the number with a tattoo-ID service, your pet can be traced back to you.
Step 3:
Use a traditional collar and tag with your contact information stamped on it. Be sure to list your cell phone number as well.

Stay Informed of Impending Disasters

Step 1:
Listen to your radio or watch TV to confirm hurricane or tornado warnings. Follow your evacuation plan if you have enough warning.
Step 2:
Bring outdoor pets inside once you have confirmed an impending emergency.
Step 3:
Stay calm. Your pets will look to you for reassurance.

Tips & Warnings

In a pinch, a bathtub can be a safe place for your pets to wait out a storm.

Resources

Pet first-aid kits at PetSmart

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