June is National Pet Preparedness Month!
Pet Preparedness Month is very important although it may not seem like it. Natural disasters and other unexpected tragedies take a toll on the whole family, including your furry children. Use this month to perfect the three Ps- plan, pack, and practice!
While you design escape routes, designate safe zones in your house, and run the drills with your canine, don’t forget to pack a go bag or kit!
Here are 10 things we think are essential to any Pet Preparedness kit!
1. Food: Pack the food your pet usually eats so they don’t get an upset stomach during a time that is already a disaster! But, if your pets eat canned food don’t forget a can opener or buy easy opening cans!
2. Water: Definitely an essential to have in a disaster kit! You should have at least a couple of days worth of water and if there is room, a small bowl for your dog will help preserve your supply!
3. Photo ID: It is crucial to have photo identification of your pup during a hectic time, even if it is an embarrassing photo of you two napping together! Don’t rely on using your phone- get hard copies printed!
4. Medications: Make sure you have at least a weeks worth of medications that your pets rely on packed and ready to go! You can also pack other canine medications you think might be needed. But remember to always replenish the supply in your go bag before they go expired! That is one of the reasons we have this unofficial national holidays every year, to remind you to switch out expired food and medicines from your kit!
5. Leash and Collar: Make sure you have a sturdy leash and collar because they might have to be strong enough to last through a disaster! Also remember to update information on your dogs collar tags when needed! To be extra prepared, you can have a tag made on your pup’s collar that specifies where your dog should be taken if found during a disaster, like a specific shelter or an address of relatives. But check with the shelter or your mom if that’s ok first!
6. First Aid Kit: This one seems like a no brainer, but you should think about investing in a pet first aid kit! This will contain pet specific needs that could come in handy during any event! You should also slip in a flash light, batteries, radio, or any other small tools you will need in a disaster!
7. Contact List: In your go bag you should always have hard copies of your vets information, shelter information, pet friendly hotels, Red Cross information, and relative contacts.
8. Clean Up Supplies: Plastic bags are a must so you can clean up after your pooch! Make sure you can take care of any personal doggy disaster…
9. Pet Carrier: This one is mostly for your small pets, but having one with you just in case will help tremendously!
10. Blankets: And other garments to keep your pup dry and warm! Snuggling helps too!
Of course there are many other things that you need and might need! It is always good to stay prepared! I hope you and your furry friends practice what to do in an emergency disaster and pack a kit just in case! Have a happy National Pet Preparedness Month and stay safe!