In Case of Emergency: Preparation is Key to Keeping Dogs Safe
No one wants to imagine a worst-case scenario, but emergencies are inevitable. Whether we experience a power outage or a fire, our best bet for keeping dogs safe in case of dangerous conditions is to be fully prepared and have a plan in place. With the wildfire season off to an early start this year, we all want to be prepared for the unexpected.
As chief of operations of the Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV), I lead our disaster planning program and advise all dog owners to make preparations for an emergency as soon as they bring their new pup home. If you don’t have an emergency plan in place already, now’s the time to make one.
At HSSV we help pet parents protect their dogs from physical or emotional repercussions in the event of an emergency by guiding them through the disaster-planning process. Preparing properly for a disaster not only protects your companion animals but also will help keep you from panicking in the event of an emergency. By following a few simple guidelines now, you can rest easier, knowing that your four-footed family members will be taken care of even under extraordinary circumstances.
Follow These Simple Steps to Prepare for a Disaster
Stock up on Carriers — Have a pet carrier/crate for every dog in your care before disaster strikes. We may be used to using the same carrier for our different pets or not have one at all. To prepare for a disaster, make sure every companion animal in your home has a means of transport. Opt for hard, rather than soft-sided, carriers to better protect your dog in case of difficult circumstances or air travel. Train your dog(s) so that they are familiar and comfortable with the carrier/crate.
Find a Safe Place to Stay — In case of an evacuation, map out places to go where dogs are allowed. Many shelters, motels, and hotels do not allow companion animals. Be prepared by having addresses handy for pet-friendly places you can stay if you need to leave in a hurry or places your pet can stay if you will be in a shelter. Alternate shelter options include out-of-area friends or relatives, veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, animal shelters, and pet-friendly hotels.
Microchip Your Pet — If you haven’t already, be sure to microchip your pet. Ensure your pet’s microchip has your current contact information as well as an out-of-area emergency contact. In the event you’re separated during an emergency, this will make it easier to be reunited. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that of lost dogs who entered animal shelters, the return-to-owner rate was 238% higher for animals who were microchipped versus those who were not. HSSV offers low-cost microchipping services by appointment.
Create an Emergency Kit — Have a kit for emergencies packed and ready to go. Include a two-week supply of your dog’s medications, food, and treats (in waterproof containers), as well as bowls for food and water and blankets. Also, pack an extra collar with an ID tag, poop bags, first aid kit for pets, and a leash. Include a folder with important documents: contact information for owner, back-up caretaker, and veterinarian; medical records; a photo of you and your pet together; a written feeding schedule; and information about medical conditions. Make sure you also have photos of your pet on your phone in case you get separated.
Enlist Friends and Neighbors — If there is an emergency evacuation, you may not be home. Find a friend or neighbor who can evacuate your dog(s) in the event that you are unable to be there yourself. Provide them with keys to your house and instructions for where to find your emergency kit so that they can take it along with your pet.
By being thoroughly prepared, you can help keep your own anxiety at bay and prevent panic if and when an emergency presents itself. Just follow these five simple steps and you will have everything in place in the event of an emergency. And remember, the more calm and collected you are during an emergency, the better your dog(s) will fare during a disaster, too.