How To Include Your Pet In Your Disaster Plan

Disasters, whether man-made or natural, are marked by huge loss of life and property and large-scale destruction. Prevention is better than cure is the mantra to live by, for it always comes in handy to protect yourself and your loved ones from impending damage.When it comes to loved ones, every pet owner would agree with me when I say that to us, our pets are just as dear as our kith and kin and our friends. Hence it is important to include our little friends in our disaster management plans.

1. Formulating a disaster plan.
2. Preparing a kit.

1. Attach collars and tags to your pet containing updated information.
2. Use a microchip that contains relevant information that can be used to track the pet if it is lost.
3. Use a pet carrier for your pets and fill in your name, the name of the pet and contact information in it and make sure your pet is well acquainted with the transport box.
4. There are two ways of sheltering in case of a disaster – sheltering at your place or sheltering at a place distant from your home. Decide your option.

In case of sheltering at home, make sure the sheltering room is safe and free of toxic materials.In case of evacuation, you canvisit

for pet shelters. You could also check with your family and friends or stay in pet friendly hotels.The next step is preparation of a disaster kit.

Having a disaster kit at the ready always helps in case a disaster strikes. Few items to include in your pet's disaster kit are:

1. Food and water for minimum of a fortnight. Food should be packed in air tight containers.
2. Food and water bowls and a can opener.
3. Items that can be used for cleaning up in case of bathroom accidents (towels, plastic bags, cleaning agent).
4. Medications for the pet and its medical records like a copy of its medical history, rabies vaccination certificate, current vaccination records and microchip information in case microchips are used and prescription for the medicines.
5. Trunks or caskets that can be used to transport the pet and items like toys and pillows to make it feel comfortable.
6. A photo of the pet and identification information, including your contact information.

Diseases that can be transferred during a calamity include rabies, ringworms and leptospirosis.Maintain good hygiene and provide proper vaccination to prevent or curb them.To each man, his own pet. Protect your treasured little ones with these tips. Hope they help.