By the time disaster strikes, it can be far too late to access all the supplies you need, only compounding the effects of an emergency. This is particularly true for pet owners. Do you have a first aid kit ready for your pets? Do you have an emergency kit ready in case of disaster? If you need to start one, here's a list of items to include. If you do you have an emergency kit for your pet, then see if there are any items you have missed. And don't forget that disaster preparedness includes a thorough plan as well.

Emergency Supplies for Your Pet

First off, you need a go-kit, a first aid kit combined with food and water storage that you can take with you on the run. Inside of this emergency kit, you will need provisions that include:

• First aid items accompanied with an instruction book
• At least 3 days of pet food stored in a waterproof container
• At least 3 days' worth of water bottles
• Waste cleanup tools
• Leash and safety harness
• Medications

You will also need to be able to access crucial information, such as:

• Proof of ownership
• List of recent vaccinations
• Medical records
• Contact info for your veterinarian and local shelters

Inspections are key to keeping up this kit. Every year, you should review your kit to make nothing has expired and that all information is current.

Pet Disaster Preparedness: Planning for an Emergency

It is only too common for pets to get separated from their owners in the midst of a disaster. If this happens, you can first check their hiding spot. If you don't know where that is, then find out before disaster hits. Also, make sure that a microchip or collar tag, etc. has current information, as many pet owners don't remember to change this information after relocating or getting a new number.

It is also important to be aware that a great number of disaster shelters will not accept pets, so you may need info ahead of time on hotels that take pets, or a vet or shelter that can care for animals during an emergency, including centers located further away, just in case. Keep your local shelter's contact information, and in that way it can be easier to track down your pet if they get lost. This also means you should have a photo of your pets at the ready, either inside a wallet or on your phone, making it easier for you to find them if lost.

For more advice on what your pet may need in the event of an emergency, such as an injury, or in case of a disaster, be it tornado, hurricane, or fire, call a veterinarian today!