In times of a natural disaster, the best way to combat fear is through preparation. When you are told to evacuate you need to leave the area and bring your pet with you. Do not attempt to “ride out” a natural disaster in your home. Here is a list of what you should have in your pet emergency kit.

Items to include in your pet emergency kit:

Dry animal food to sustain an animal for a week
Bottled Water
food/water dishes
extra leashes and collars
Shampoo
Food-grade Diatomaceous Earth to prevent fleas, ticks, and parasitic maladies
Duct tape and twine for extra emergency collars, leashes, and tourniquets
Portable travel kennels and durable toys
Plastic bags and portable shovel
Spare towels and blankets
Medications
Veterinary contact card and printed copies of vaccinations and prescriptions
Secure name-tags with the pet’s name and valid contact phone number and rabies tag
Soothing music for animals like nature sounds and Native American flute music
A printed list of pet friendly hotels for your state and immediately surrounding states
Emergency contact sheet
Current Animal Flyers

Assume you will be without electricity and print out a dozen or more of your flyers. It is important to keep them dry in a zip locked baggie or airtight container. In the event you need to distribute the flyer you want it in usable condition.

What to include in an animal flyer:

Pet's name, species, and current photo
Pet’s color pattern, gender, and noticeable scars
Unique features like a collar design worn or animal outfit
Spay/neuter status and any medical conditions
The presence of an active electronic identification chip
How the pet interacts with strangers, children, and other animals

Living in a technology driven society we sometimes overlook the fact that we might not have access to the internet. It is important to print out a hard copy of pet emergency contacts to have on hand.

Emergency Contacts:

Your veterinary office:

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Humane Society:

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County Pound:

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Active shelter, rescue, and foster-care programs:

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Additional Resources:

For those who still have access to the internet here is a comprehensive list for specific species preparation along with relevant emergency contact information for Hurricane Sandy. You want to print out or write down as much information as is practical. Please do not assume you will continue to have internet access.

The key to remaining safe is preparedness. From all of us at BellaOnline our thoughts are with you for your family's safe return home.

To learn more about effective readiness: Be Prepared: The Disaster Readiness Handbook