Pets add so much to our lives, they in turn trust and depend on us for their safety and well being. This will be all the more true after a destructive earthquake. Planning ahead can make all the difference to a pet's survival.
Your pet may be injured in the quake. Know the location of emergency animal hospitals in and outside your area. List their names, phone numbers and addresses.
A safe place for your pet may be hard to find. Call around now to see which hotels, motels both in and out of your immediate area will allow pets. Ask if they will waive a no-pet policy in a disaster. Ask friends if they would board your pet. Identify vets, boarding facilities and animal shelters. Be aware that emergency shelters may be full so don't depend on them. Make a list of pet-OK places. You may not be home when the quake strikes. Set up now with a neighbor to care for your pet until you return. Offer to do the same for their pet.
Make sure your pet can be identified. Pet collars should have tags. Pets with ankles can have ID rings. Your vet can implant a tiny microchip under the skin of dogs, cats and other pets. The chip goes in with minimal or no discomfort to the animal. It's permanent, it can't fall off like a tag could. Most vets and shelters are able to scan the chips and read the ID.
Take a photo of your pet now. It will be an invaluable help if you have to find your pet later.
Secure bird cages, fish and reptile tanks so they won't be thrown over when the ground moves. Put them in a place where they are least likely to be harmed by glass or falling objects.
Assemble a pet earthquake kit. You'll have what your pet needs with you and can leave it with your pet if that becomes necessary. Include:
- A copy of your pet's medical records and prescriptions along with any information that would be required for someone else to care for your pet. Include feeding schedule, behavior problems, your vet's name and number. (Keep this in a waterproof plastic bag).
- Medications.
- Food and water, 3 days minimum supply.
- Manual can opener if the food is in cans.
- Non-spill bowls.
- Leash or harness.
- Pet carrier, for transport and as temporary escape proof pet house.
- Cat litter/pan.
- Blankets.
- Small pet beds and toys.
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