Second Chance: Evacuation Emergency Kit/Tips for Companion Animals

13 Jun Second Chance: Evacuation Emergency Kit/Tips for Companion Animals

To continue the topic of Second Chance Humane Society’s Pet Column from last week on emergency preparedness, and how to be prepared to evacuate your animals if the need arose, I will be reviewing how to create a pet emergency kit that can be available to grab quickly should the need arise.

Minnie

As the potential for fire driven evacuation increases throughout Colorado, I am hearing that people are not as prepared as they should be.

Clearly, additional education and prevention measures could really make the difference if the need really does unfold. I also want to re-emphasize that foremost in emergency preparedness for families with pets is making sure your pets have micro-chips. That is the best way to ensure you can locate your friend should an emergency separated you.

Critical items for the pet emergency kit are:

• Three-or-more-day supply of food in airtight, waterproof container, and drinking water
• Bowls for food and water
• Current photos and physical description of your pets, including details on markings (ideally you should also be in the photo)
• Medications, vaccination records and pet first aid supplies
• Comfort items such as a toy and blanket
• For dogs include: leash, harness and a sturdy carrier (with pet’s identification information) large enough to use as a sleeping area
• For cats include: litter and litter box and a sturdy carrier (with pet’s identification information) large enough for transport

An additional preparation measure to take is to get a Rescue Alert Sticker for your home. That will let people know that pets may be inside. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers on or near your front door, and that it includes the types and number of pets in your home. If you  evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write “EVACUATED” across the stickers.

Again, I don’t want to incite anxiety by discussing these topics, but want to help you feel more prepared should the need arise.

In the meantime, and to take your mind off of fires, why don’t you come to the Second Chance Shelter and rub my belly for a while?

I am a beautiful brown tabby of about seven years young. I do well with other cats and have been living in a communal room with two other cats here at Second Chance. I have wonderful loving energy and enjoy giving and receiving affection and attention. My name is Minnie, but my heart is Maxie.

Vetting the Vet: Dr. Michelle Dally, DVM, J.D. is Medical Director of Second Chance Humane Society. She also has a private practice, Dally Veterinary Medicine, 333 S. Elizabeth Street, Ridgway, Colorado. Her service area is  San Miguel Mesas, Placerville, Ridgway, Ouray, and Montrose. For more on Dr. Dally, go here.

Michelle & Wallowby