How to include your pets in your emergency plan.
Creating a disaster management plan that includes your animals is a critical part of responsible pet ownership, and planning ahead increases the likelihood of getting your pets to safety. Before the emergency, take the time to prepare an evacuation plan that includes livestock and pets. Tips to help plan for an emergency:
- Prepare an animal emergency kit (see below)
- Train your animals to be settled in a cage/carrier/crate/horse float
- Ensure cats and dogs are microchipped and contact details are up to date
- Dog and cats should wear collars and have an ID tag including their name, owner’s name and contact number
- Plan for how you will relocate your animal
- Consider transportation for larger animals for e.g. horse floats and trucks
- Discuss your emergency plan with the family and practice it
Preparing an animal emergency kit ensures you have the essentials for your animal if you need to seek temporary accommodation. The kit should include:
- Dry food and water containers (enough for at least three days)
- Food and water bowls
- Leads. collars, harnesses, etc.
- Poo bags for dogs, cat litter and tray for cats, etc.
- Cage or carrier appropriate for smaller pets (cat, bird, guinea pig, reptile). Ensure the litter tray in the carrier suits the animal. Label the cage and/or carrier with your contact details.
- Vaccination certificates, registration certificates
- First aid items and medications
- Blankets, towel, and bedding
- Information sheet including your name and contact details, photo of pet, pet’s name, description and care requirements
- Toys