Your Animal's Health
Emergency and Disaster Pet Preparedness
Prepare a Disaster Plan
Step 1- What could happen?
Identify the natural disasters or emergencies that could occur in your area. We all know that the weather in Nebraska can change in a minute. Tornadoes? Hail? Flooding? Power outages? Knowing what you might be preparing for will help you build your disaster plan.
Step 2-What if...
What if the authorities tell me to stay home?
Create a preparedness kit for your pets and family ahead of time. The kit should include:
- Your pet's medications and medical records, a written description of your pet and a photo. Store these in a waterproof container. Your vet information is also important to have.
- A first aid kit
- Leashes - make sure they are sturdy enough if your pet gets stressed
- Pet carriers
- Food and water - make sure it's enough for 3-7 days. Cat litter is not a bad idea either. A disposable turkey baking pan works well in a pinch!
- Pet bedding and toys.
What if the authories tell me to evacuate?
- Plan to take your pet with you! Even if you think you may be gone for few hours or a couple of days, take your pets with you. Once you are evacuated you have no real way of knowing when you will be allowed back into your area or your home.
- Plan to leave early. Give yourself enough time to be able to take your pets with you.
- Have a preparedness kit with you.
- Plan your evacuation location with your family and pet. Find out what hotels and motels will take pets and try to call ahead for a reservation.
- If you cannot stay in a hotel, make sure family members will allow your pets if you are staying with them.
- Make sure you have leashes, collars, kennels and pet suppies as well as food. And don't forget the litter box!
What if I'm not home when the emergency happens?
- Plan ahead with a trusted family member, friend or neighbor who lives nearby. They should have easy access to your home and be familiar with your animals. They should know where you keep your pet supplies, emergency preparedness kit (in case they have to evacuate) and anything else your pet may need.
During the emergency or disaster
- Collect and confne your pet early.
- Have your preparedness kit ready.
- Remember to check that your pet is wearing a collar with their information, your phone number and address on it. A cell phone number is especially important.
- Take your pets with you.
- If possible, evacuate early!
After the emergency or disaster
- Remember that even though the emergency is over, life still may not return to "normal" for a while.
- Your pets may be stressed. Be patient with them and try to get them back on their normal routine as much as possible.
- Keep pets on leashes or in crates for a few days until everyone becomes acclimated again. Do allow your pet to roam.
- Talk to your veterinarian if your pets exhibit behavioral or health problems that last longer than a few days.