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American Red Cross
Pets
The
best way to protect your family from the effects of a disaster is to have a disaster plan. If you are a pet owner, that plan
must include your pets. Being prepared can save their lives.
Different disasters require different responses. But
whether the disaster is a hurricane or a hazardous spill, you may have to evacuate your home.
In the event of a disaster,
if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. Leaving pets behind,
even if you try to create a safe place for them, is likely to result in their being injured, lost, or worse. So prepare now
for the day when you and your pets may have to leave your home. The Red Cross recommends the following:
Have a Safe Place To Take Your Pets
Local and state health and safety regulations do not permit
the Red Cross to allow pets in disaster shelters. Service animals which assist people with disabilities are the only animals
allowed in Red Cross shelters. It may be difficult, if not impossible, to find shelter for your animals in the midst of an
evacuation, so plan ahead. Do not wait until disaster strikes!
Contact hotels and motels outside your local area to check
their policies on accepting pets and restrictions on number, size and species. Ask if "no pet" policies could be waived in
an emergency. Keep a list of "pet friendly" places, including phone numbers, with your other disaster information and supplies.
If you are alerted to an impending disaster, call ahead for reservations.
Ask friends, relatives or others outside the
affected area whether they could shelter your animals. If you have more than one pet, they may be more comfortable if kept
together, but be prepared to house them separately.
Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter
animals in an emergency; include 24-hour phone numbers.
Ask local animal shelters if they provide emergency shelter or
foster care for pets during a disaster. Animal shelters may be overwhelmed caring for the animals they already have as well
as those displaced by a disaster, so this should be your last resort.
Assemble a Portable Pet
Disaster Supplies Kit
Whether you are away from home for a day or a week, you'll need essential supplies. Keep
items in an accessible place and store them in sturdy containers that can be carried easily (a duffle bag or covered trash
containers, for example). Your pet disaster supplies kit should include:
Medications and medical records (stored in a
waterproof container) and a first aid kit.
Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure
that your animals can't escape.
Current photos of your pets in case they get lost.
Food, potable water, bowls, cat
litter/pan, and can opener.
Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and
number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets.
Pet bed or toys if easily transportable.
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