Do You Have A Pet Emergency Supply Kit?

National Animal Disaster-

Preparedness Day  

May 12, 2012. 

 Are You Ready?

Whenever there are national disasters, there are animals that are effected. We often think about being prepare ourselves but what about your dog or cat. What happens if you have to leave your home in a hurry, will you have the things you need to take care of your pet?

If you're not sure what to do the folks over at Pet Camp have some great suggestions. The following list of supplies is from their website. 

Prepare a Pet Emergency Supply Kit 

Just like you need to prepare an emergency supply kit for yourself, you will also need one for your pet. Make sure you use plastic zipper bags to store items and then place them into a larger waterproof container. Here are items to include in your kit:

• Food & Water: Keep at least 3 days’ worth. If your pet eats canned food get some cans with tops that don’t need a can opener. Make sure you rotate this food and water every few months so that it’s ready for use in case you actually need it. 
• Food & Water Bowls: Include something light and easy to clean. 
• Medicine & Medical Records: If your pet is on regular medicines, keep an extra supply in your kit. Put a copy of your pet's most recent medical records in your kit should you need to have your pet stay elsewhere. 
• First Aid Kit: Include the basics like: cotton bandages, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, latex gloves, tweezers, saline solution, and a basic pet first aid book.
• Leash & Collar: Keep an extra leash and collar in your kit. If you have an extra set of ID tags put them on the spare collar. Ensuring that your pet is microchipped will assist in identification if you and your pet are separated.
• Crate or Carrying Case: Have a crate or carrying case for your pet. If your kit is small and you have a smaller pet, consider adding an all-cotton pillow case so that you have something to contain your pet. You may want to consider a crate on wheels or a pet stroller to make evacuation easier.
• Cleaning supplies: Depending on your type of pet, you may also need litter and a litter box, paper towels and plastic trash bags. Consider using aluminum roasting pans because they are light and can be thrown away. Include some liquid dish soap and disinfectant. 

Being prepared isn't only for national disasters or catastrophic events. Often it's small local events that can mean you have to leave your home. Thinking about your pets before it happens will ensure that their welfare will be taken care of. Fires, water mains bursting, chemical or gas leaks can all force you to make a quick exit. 

Bankok Flood Emergency

Have you had to leave your home in a hurry? What other things should pet guardians be aware of?