Make Sure Your Pet is Safe During a Disaster

During a disaster, pets are often overlooked and left to die. For example, in NYC during 9/11, the police did not allow pet owners and rescuers to enter the outlying stricken areas to rescue pets until almost four days after the initial disaster. Many pets were found dead.

Here’s what you can do to help rescuers find your pet alive.

1. ID your pet. Make sure that your dog or cat has a collar with all of his (and your) identification information. You may even consider microchipping your pet to ensure that if he looses his collar an animal shelter will still be able to identify him.
2. Get a sticker. Mark the outside of your home with a sticker that tells firefighters and rescuers how many pets and what kind of pets are in the house. For example: 1 dog, 2 cats. Put the sticker in the window closest to the door.
3. Tell a friend. Find a neighbor or friend who you trust and who knows your pets. Give them a key to your home. Give them specific directions on what to do during a disaster with your pet(s).
4. Always leave directions and emergency contact info. If you are going on vacation and leaving your pet behind with a pet sitting service or having someone come check on your pet, always leave emergency vet and contact information. This information should include:
* How to contact you during your trip
* Which vet to take your pet to in the event that he gets sick or injured
* Your pet's medical history
* Any medications is your pet on.
* The nearest family or friend who will take physical custody of your pet should something happen to you

Remember ALWAYS check pet sitter references. Make sure they are licensed, bonded, insured and know how to contact search and rescue should your pet escape.
5. Make up a missing poster of your pet before you leave. Include the contact numbers of friends and family. Include several different photos of your pet, a reward, your contact information, and specific directions to the person that will be in charge of the search while you’re gone.

If you travel with your pet you should make up the poster before you leave so that if your pet gets lost or is stolen, this info is ready to print.
6. DURING A DISASTER NEVER EVER LEAVE YOUR PET BEHIND FOR ANY REASON. The American Red Cross will not allow your pet in an emergency shelter. It’s up to you to take responsibility and pre-plan (items such as a tent, food, sleeping bag, and water for yourself and your pets are all important).

Be sure to include kennels, food, water and first aid supplies for your pet for a minimum of one week. If a fire, flood, or other disaster strikes and you are ordered to leave your home, make sure to take your pets with you. It may be days or weeks before a rescue team is in the area to search the homes to find survivors. If you love them, don’t leave them.