Emergencies can strike without warning, and being prepared is crucial for the safety of all family members, including our beloved pets. From power outages to natural disasters, having a solid plan ensures their well-being.
No matter the scale of any unfolding event, Progress Residential, a leading provider of property management services for single-family rentals, understands the importance of pet safety in emergencies. This planning should form an essential part of broader emergency or disaster preparation measures designed to help promote the safety of all family members—even those with fur, feathers, or scales!
Read on for a closer look at several emergency preparedness tips for safeguarding pets during times of crisis or emergency.
Create an Evacuation Plan
When a crisis strikes, a pre-planned evacuation strategy is vital for ensuring the well-being of all family members, and pets are no exception. Start by planning multiple evacuation routes. Then, practice these routes with all family members, including a plan for quickly securing pets during your evacuation.
Familiarizing dogs with these routes can make evacuating easier. Practice with other pets too, using carriers or cages as needed.
In major incidents like fires or floods, having a designated evacuation destination is crucial. Earmark one or more potential pet-friendly hotels, shelters, or a friend or family member’s home where everyone can stay in the immediate aftermath.
Pack a Pet Emergency Kit
In addition to an evacuation plan, a pet emergency kit is essential. Keep the kit packed, easily accessible, and ready to go. Include a one-week supply of food and bottled water, spare leashes, bedding, and basic first aid supplies. For pets under veterinary care, include a copy of their medical records and necessary medications, replacing them periodically to avoid expiration.
The American Red Cross offers comprehensive guidelines on preparing a pet emergency kit: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html
Practice Comforting and Reassurance
Emergencies can be stressful for pets, and they will look to their owners for comfort and reassurance during a crisis. Practice offering comfort and reassurance in advance. This practice will make it easier to provide the all-important support needed to keep pets calm if the worst should happen.
Creating a cozy space where pets feel safe can make all the difference in the immediate aftermath of a significant incident. If a pet has a preferred crate or carrier, plans to include and utilize these in an emergency. Include blankets or clothing that carries your scent to create a sense of familiarity and safety. Where this isn’t possible, using calming pheromone sprays and other pet reassurance techniques can help, particularly in the short term.
Other Considerations
Identification Is Key
Ensure all appropriate pets are microchipped or have collars with up-to-date identification tags on them. Written or photographic identification can prove similarly helpful for smaller animals should the worst occur. That’s doubly true should they become separated from the rest of the family.
Stay Vigilant and Informed
Keep an eye on weather forecasts and register for local emergency alerts, particularly for natural disasters. Stay informed about other potential emergencies to ensure the welfare of your pets.
Up-to-Date Emergency Contacts
Maintain an up-to-date list of written emergency contacts. Phones and other electronics may lose power or become damaged in a disaster scenario, so having written contacts is essential. Furthermore, be sure to list emergency contacts who can assist with any pets if you’re away from home and unable to reach them, such as a trusted neighbor.
By taking these steps, you can improve your ability to keep your pets safe during any emergency. Progress Residential is committed to helping you and your furry family members stay safe and secure.
For more information on emergency preparedness for pets, visit https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness
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