Be Prepared

June – Official Start of Wildfire and Hurricane Season

Are you prepared to evacuate with your pets in the event of an emergency? June is the official start of wildfire and hurricane season!  Here are some tips on what should be in your “go bag” because it is imperative to have an emergency plan for the whole family, including your pets.

Is your animal microchipped? If you say yes, make sure your information is up to date. The only one who can update your pet’s information is you as the owner.

Collars should have tags that include your current telephone number. Need an updated tag? Stop by our Adoption Center during regular business hours to choose from assorted colors and shapes. For only $5 your pets name and your phone number.

Take a moment to capture you and your pet in a recent photo together. This is a great way to have a clear visual of you and your pet if you have to search for them in a crowded shelter evacuation area.

Medical records, vaccination history and medications in a waterproof container. If you don’t have something waterproof use a Ziplock bag to keep the records safe and dry. Electronic copies are even better!

Your emergency supplies should include

Their favorite toy, blanket and bed. Bring a scratcher for your cat and a chew toy for your dog.

Enough food and water for at least 5 days. One gallon of water per pet.

Bowls for water and food. If you feed wet food, make sure you have a manual can opener handy if they are not tab top cans.

Collapsible litter box and litter for your cat. You can never have enough poop bags for your dog! You can also use those poop bags to scoop your litter box by opening one, place it over your hand, scoop the box and turn the bag inside out then tie it shut. Clean hands!

Leash, collar and harness for your dog. Don’t forget to get that tag with your contact info on it.

If you evacuate to a shelter, they will require your pet to be in a crate. Be prepared with a crate that your pet can stand up and turn around comfortably.

Lastly, find out what hotels are outside of the danger zone that allow pets. If you evacuate to a friend’s home, make sure they are not in an area in jeopardy and that they will welcome you and your pets.

Stay safe, drive slow and bring a whole lot of patience with you when you evacuate to safety.

 

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