Tips for National Pet Preparedness Month

June is National Pet Preparedness Month. It’s important to be prepared for disasters and emergencies all year round and this month serves as a reminder to review your plan with your family. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Ensure Your Pet Has Proper Identification

Having the right forms of identification is important in the event you and your precious pets get separated. We recommend ensuring that your pet is microchipped. The chip can be scanned at any veterinarian's office or animal shelter and will display vitals, an address, and a contact number. If your pet is already microchipped, make sure the information is up to date, and make sure their tag includes details such as medications and allergies to make sure they receive proper care until you are reunited.

It’s also a great idea to include a recent photo of you and your pet in your emergency kit. It will come in handy if you need to describe your pet!

2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

If you live in an area that is vulnerable to floods, wildfires, or other natural disasters, it’s important to know where you can bring your pets. Make a list of locations (such as family and friends’ homes or pet-friendly hotels) and contact numbers to choose from should you need to evacuate.

3. Stay Together

Disasters and emergencies are scary for everyone, but especially for your pets. Pets can easily flee and run away when they are afraid, so keep them on a leash when outdoors and find a safe, confined space if you are indoors. 

4. Prepare A Disaster/Emergency Kit

Create a disaster kit for emergencies. Kits should include:

• Food  
• Bottles of water 
• Extra medicine 
• Copies of veterinarian records 
• Poop bags
• Cat litter and pan
• Leashes and collars
• First aid kit
• Food and water bowls 
• Your pet’s favorite treat or toy
• A list of important contacts
• A towel that can be used as a soft place for your pet to lay down, for clean up, and even for a makeshift dog harness 

You know your pets best, so be sure to customize your kit to include any additional items that are special and unique to them and their needs.

If you have any questions about being prepared for a disaster or emergencies, call us at (386) 586-3000. We are always here to help!