| Preparing
for Emergency - Part I You can't plan for an emergency, but you can be prepared. With the tragic events of late and the "new normalcy" we face of heightened alerts and continued potential for emergency, it is definitely time to prepare and have a plan for our pets (and ourselves) in case of emergency. This is the first in a two part series focusing on basic emergency preparedness for our animal companions. Part I deals with general issues when traveling with pets and finding a new vet after a move. Part II will focus on disaster preparedness. For
Pet Owners Finding a Local
Veterinarian and Travel Tips Traveling with a pet calls for a careful planning to ensure that your pet has enough food, water, and "security items", such as leashes, identification tags, collars, and a crate or bed. It is also a good idea to bring along water from home to avoid any gastrointestinal upset. Medications, either short-term or monthly, should be packed and quantities checked to make sure that there won't be a shortage or problem with administration of the medication(s). Also, packing favorite toys is a good idea if your pet derives a sense of security or if they are needed for exercise (i.e. ball, Frisbee). If your pet stays home with a pet sitter, be sure to leave your veterinarian's phone number with your other contact information. It is also a good idea to let your veterinarian know that you will be gone, who is taking care of your pet, and that you pre-authorize any treatments that may become necessary as determined by your pet sitter and/or vet. Demonstrate to your pet sitter how to give medications or other necessary pet care techniques (changing litter, giving subcutaneous fluids. etc.) to ensure proper pet care. Your veterinarian should also have your cell phone or other phone numbers when traveling, so s/he can contact you directly if need be. First Aid For
Veterinarians Veterinary Emergency Drug Calculator - Just fill in the patient's weight and name, and this will calculate common emergency drug dosages, fluid amounts, and defibrillation units for each patient. Print it out and attach to the patient record so everyone in the hospital can be aware of drugs and amounts given to the patient. Cornell Consultant - Need some 'inspiration' for that puzzling emergency case? Search for a diagnosis based on species and keywords or signs. Share
Your Emergency Preparedness Tips
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Related Links for Pet Owners and Vets -
See what they are saying in the FORUM about emergency first aid kits.
Graphics by Janet Tobiassen
Crosby DVM | Photos by Hemera Technologies
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