Are you and your pets prepared for an emergency?

The Timmins & District Humane Society recommends these emergency preparedness tips to keep your pets safe during an emergency

 

Making arrangements before the chaos of an emergency, such as a bad storm or fire, can increase your pet’s chances of sur­vival and greatly reduce the not only the stress and fear your family will have regarding the well being of your pet, but your pet’s fear and anxiety as well. The Timmins and District Humane Society and the Ontario SPCA recommend these tips to prepare your pet’s for safety during emergency situations.

First, develop a family emergency response plan. This includes setting a primary and alternative meeting point away from the home in case of evacuation, listing emergency telephone numbers where all family members can find them (including the name and number of your pet’s veterinarian) and putting together a family emergency survival kit.

Next, create a pet emergency survival kit for quick and easy access. Some things to include are:

  • 72 hour supply of food, bowls, and can opener
  • 72 hour supply of bottled water
  • Blankets/towels (more than one in case they get soiled)
  • Small toy
  • Leash, muzzle, harness
  • Litter pan, litter, plastic bags and scooper
  • Pet carrier for transportation
  • Medical records, especially proof of vaccinations (most boarding facilities will not accept pets without proof of current vaccination records)
  • Medications and pet first aid kit
  • Current photo of your pet in case he gets lost
  • Information on your pet’s feeding schedule, behavioural/medical concerns, and special instructions in case you have to board your pet
  • List of boarding facilities in your area, hotels/motels that accept pets and friends and relatives that you and your pet can stay with (pets are generally not allowed inside emergency shelters designated for people, with the exception of service animals such as guide dogs.
  • ID tag (microchipping is also recommended)
  • Flashlight
  • Check the kit twice a year (an easy way to remember is to do it when you check your smoke alarms bi-annually) to ensure freshness of food, water, and medication, and to restock any supplies

Individuals and families are responsible for their pet during an emergency. It cannot be assumed that your local shelter will be able to provide care and shelter for your pet during an emergency situation, as they will be responsible for the care of the animals already in their care.  Take the time today to make sure you are prepared and are able to properly care for your