
Preparing for your own evacuation should also include a plan for your pets.
Delays in caring for your pet, could endanger you and your family. Indeed, the key word is PREPARE.
• Assemble an evacuation kit:
-Two weeks’ supply of food
-Cage/Carrier
-Essential veterinary records and proof of ownership
-Make sure your pet is microchipped and is wearing a collar and ID tag. Attach an AirTag (iPhone) or SmartTag (Android). There are now GPS collars as well.
-All necessary medications.
-Veterinary Hospital contact information as well as ER contact information. Your personal contact information.
-Leash, collar, and/or harness. Harnesses are the most secure.
-Make sure a friend or family member has access to your pet and the evacuation kit in case you are not home.
-First aid kit. It’s ideal to have several of them, so that one can be kept in the car, home, and with a neighbor/friend.
-Make sure that you have pictures of your pet along with vital statistics (weight, color, breed, unique markings, etc.) in case your pet is lost.
There are many things to consider in an emergency situation. During stressful times, it’s easy to forget unless there is a formal list/preparation.
For more detailed resources, visit AVMF.org
By Dr. Frank Lavac, MS, DVM
If you have any questions, you can contact Dr. Lavac at 310-828-4587.
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