{"id":2336,"date":"2014-09-10T10:35:28","date_gmt":"2014-09-10T10:35:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aercmn.com\/?p=2336"},"modified":"2014-09-10T10:35:28","modified_gmt":"2014-09-10T10:35:28","slug":"disaster-preparedness-for-pets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/disaster-preparedness-for-pets\/","title":{"rendered":"Disaster Preparedness for Pets"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Being prepared is the key to surviving disasters. This includes not only preparing for yourself, but for your pet as well. General rules of thumb are to have a 1-week supply of essentials at the house (stored in waterproof containers), a 3-day supply of essentials in a waterproof box in the car, and a 1-day supply of lightweight essentials in a backpack, stored in an easily accessible location, such as a car, bedroom, or office. Don\u2019t be caught unprepared. Follow these guidelines to help your pet prepare for a disaster.<\/p>\n

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1. Water<\/h4>\n

This is the most critical item during a disaster. As to how much you will need, calculate one gallon per person per day. An eight-pound cat will drink about a cup of water per day. A thirty-pound dog will drink about one quart of water per day. These amounts will dramatically increase with heat, humidity, or any strenuous activity. In your backpack, pack two quarts of water and either puri\ufb01cation tablets or a water \ufb01lter.<\/p>\n

2. Food<\/h4>\n

Store non-perishable foods that do not require hydration with water. Vacuum-sealed, waterproof packets of dry food or canned food for pets works well. Don\u2019t forget a can opener. Include special treats to help reduce stress in pets and to help distract them if needed.<\/p>\n

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3. Medical<\/h4>\n

Keep a good store of your pet\u2019s medications. Always have in excess of a one-week supply. If your pet has problems with anxiety, such as storm phobia, be sure to also have a veterinarian-prescribed sedative or tranquilizer on-hand.<\/p>\n

4. Clothing<\/h4>\n

Emergency re\ufb02ective solar blankets can be life-saving. Fleece is comfortable, compact, and quick drying. Dogs should have protective boots to guard against debris. Re\ufb02ective collars or vests, an extra leash, and even a \ufb02ashing red LED collar light are good ideas. Transportable pet carriers for cats or small dogs are also a good idea. The ability to restrain a pet during stressful times can help keep them safe.<\/p>\n

5. ID<\/h4>\n

Microchip<\/a> your pet, and don\u2019t forget to register your name and information with the microchip company. Also, register your pet with the county. Always have ID tags and a rabies tag on your pet\u2019s collar. Make sure you have addresses and numbers to local emergency veterinarians, your veterinarian, proof of rabies vaccination, and a photo of your pet. Keep your pet up to date on heartworm preventative, \ufb02ea\/tick preventatives, and de-wormers, as parasites can become more prevalent during disasters.<\/p>\n

More Reading:<\/p>\n