Preparing for disasters with your cat or dog

Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, fire... would you know what to do if a natural disaster struck in your area? When mere minutes can mean the difference between life and death, family pets often are lost in the chaos. With simple advance planning, you can ensure that your adored animal companion stays right where he belongs – safe, with you – in case of emergency. And should you need to evacuate your home, whenever possible keep your animal companion with you. Any situation that is hazardous to you is hazardous to your pet, too.

Pet disaster preparation

Begin by compiling a list of friends, relatives and lodgings to which you can retreat should you need to evacuate your home. It's a good idea to let your friends know they're at the top of the list, and make sure any hotels or other accommodations that you've selected allow animals.

Always keep your pet's identification information as current as possible, be it tag, tattoo or microchip. It is a good idea to make certain your pet wears a collar with proper ID tags all the time, in case he ever escapes your custody.

Obtain a sticker that can be placed on the entrance doors to your home to alert police, fire or rescue personnel that there are animals inside. Some animals may become frightened in a disaster situation and hide or bolt, so if your pet has a favorite hiding place, include that information on the sticker as well as your pet's name.

It's important that your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date as well. Attach a copy of his medical records, medication and feeding instructions to his carrier; a waterproof pouch or container or a zip-lock bag is ideal for this.

Take some color photographs of your animal companion, too. In the unfortunate instance that he becomes lost, shelter staff can use these as reference. On the back of the pictures note your pet's name, type, size and weight, and any unusual markings. Include your address and phone number.

It's smart to accustom your pet to a mobile kennel or carrier. In case of emergency, he will be much easier to handle and to transport. To do this, open the door to the carrier and leave it in a corner of your living room and place a few treats in it; let your pet explore at his own pace. Repeat often and you just might find your pet sleeping or resting in it!

Always keep a supply of food, bottled water, bowls, litter, toys and bedding on hand. Keep in mind that dry food is lighter, and thus easier, to carry. Remember to rotate the emergency food with fresh food every few months, particularly if it is dry food; otherwise, when you need to use it, it may be outdated and inedible. Keep leashes and harnesses handy, too.

Should an emergency arise, you and your pet will be prepared.