Natural disasters come in many shapes and sizes. From hurricanes to tsunamis, earthquakes to severe lightning, these ferocious acts of nature can devastate our lives and the lives of our pets.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina ravaged the nation with one of the costliest and deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States. In addition to countless people, thousands of pets were left stranded and homeless and many died.
It’s important to learn from the historical path of destruction Katrina left behind. While there is little we can do to prevent a natural disaster, we can, however, protect our pets by preparing for some of them. North Shore Animal League America has created a disaster preparedness kit for animals. It may possibly save your pets’ lives one day.
- Ensure that all pets have proper identification tags listing their name, owners name, address and phone number **be sure to include a cell phone number**
- Current rabies tag on collar
- Current license tag on collar (for canines)
- Consider microchipping your pet to serve as a back up source of identification should the collar and tags become lost/damage. Be sure to register and activate chip with company
- Current photographs of all pets (including a close up of their face and one of their full body) with detailed descriptions of special markings and distinguishing features – also consider laminating photos to help protect them from the elements
- Copies of current veterinary history including medical conditions, vaccination information, prescription medications with dosing and frequency
- Copies of pre-made LOST PET signs with your animals photo, description and emergency contact information (include your cell phone and phone numbers of other possible contacts) – laminating signs will help protect them from the elements
- One month supply of your pets current prescription in waterproof containers clearly labeled with name of pet, name of medication and current dosing
- Monthly dose of heartworm medication and flea/tick medication
- Extra collars, harnesses, leashes and ID tags
- A muzzle – in case your pet is injured or frightened and needs to be handled by rescue workers or a veterinarian
- Containment system to securely and safely transport and temporarily house your pet – this could include a pop-up crate, exercise pen with cover or a standard pet carrier
- Poop pick up bags or litter box
- Paper towels
- Waterless antiseptic hand wash for humans
- Supply of bottled water
- Supply of canned and dry food that your pet currently eats – remember that drastic dietary changes can result in gastrointestinal upset for your pet
- Manual can opener
- Food and water bowls
- Phone numbers of local veterinarians, emergency hospitals, boarding kennels, animal shelters and humane societies
- Emergency contact numbers for alternative caretakers should you yourself become incapacitated or unable to care for you pet
- Flashlight with fresh batteries
- Tools – including scissors, tweezers and a thermometer
- Grooming supplies:
~ waterless shampoo
~ baby wipes
~ brush/comb - First aid supplies:
~ hydrogen peroxide
~ povidone iodine solution (or other antiseptic)
~ alcohol
~ triple antibiotic ointment for cuts/scrapes
~ sterile eye wash
~ artificial tears or eye lubricant
~ instant ice packs
~ gauze squares and cotton balls
~ non-adherent dressing (telfa pad or equivalent)
~ roll gauze
~ conforming bandage (self–adherent)
~ adhesive bandaging tape
~ latex gloves - Waterproof carrying case for supplies - a fishing tackle box is helpful to keep kit organized, clean and dry
