Preparing
for Emergency - Part II
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 second in a two part series focusing on basic emergency preparedness
for our animal companions. Part I dealt with
general issues when traveling with pets and finding a new vet after a
move. This article (Part II) focuses on disaster preparedness, with tips
from our viewers.
Pet
Owner Preparedness
Viewers of this site who have an emergency plan for themselves and
their animals were kind enough to share what they are doing and have done
for some time now, to prepare in the event of an emergency or natural
disaster.
From Randi (Forum
name: SOMANYCATS)
I have always had an evacuation plan, which included a local hotel out
of the flood zone for temporary relocation and a friend's house in another
state for longer stays. I also keep at least a 2 week supply of meds and
special food. Carriers are kept readily available, although most are not
assembled; for rapid evac needs I have "evac" bags (mesh bags
with drawstring tops).
The recent events,
however, have given me a different perspective, and I am revising my plan.
My new goals for the
cats are:
- A three-month supply
of meds at all times. If a disaster occurs, immediately obtain an additional
3 month supply.
- A six-month supply
of dry food, including special diets. A 2 month supply of canned food
(treats for my guys).
- A three-month supply
of kitty litter.
- Extra blankets,
in case heat is lost. I already have plans for an inside "tent" to trap
heat- with their 101-102 degree body temp, cats are very good at producing
heat in a small enclosed space!
- A six-month supply
of bottled water.
- Extra towels/sheets
for bedding- no electric would mean no laundry.
- A very comprehensive
first aid kit, including manual.
- A diaper pail with
sealed lid, for litter disposal if we cannot go outside.
- Medical records,
including current vaccination info, which can be easily and quickly
taken if we have to leave.
- The food, litter,
and carriers are kept stored in the car.
- Keep the gas tank
in the car full. Check all fluids weekly, make sure everything is full.
- I am also looking
to move down south (have been for 2 years, now more earnestly) where
we will have more space. Then, I will increase everything to a one year
supply.
From Michael (Forum
name: MICHAELC121)
As for preparing for a natural disaster --I have the basics in my
main house, which include: flash lights, candles, batteries, AM/FM/VHF
radio, digital phone and a first aid kit.
What many people do
not seem to realize is that in the wake of a terrorist attack or natural
disaster is that evacuating and even abandoning your home is almost a
guarantee. As we have seen in the WTC (World Trade Center) attack, many
citizens of NYC (New York City) were displaced. People should always have
a few contingency plans set up.
Personally speaking,
my family has a vacation home in up state Vermont. It can sleep about
eight comfortably. It is equipped to become our so-called base camp in
case of a natural disaster or terrorist attack took place here in Boston.
Our Vermont home has a gas generator, 1st aid kits, candles, digital phones,
walkie-talkies, ham radio/CB, Satellite TV, Internet access and a well
water supply. I also drive a 4x4 that is equipped for off road just in
case I have to drive in snow.
As for my protecting
my pets, they are definitely coming with me. When I vacation the dogs
and cats all take the drive with us. After a day in the vacation house,
they are very relaxed and they act like they have lived there for years.
So I'm sure they wont have a problem adjusting.
From Your Guide
- Janet Tobiassen DVM:
Ok, I admit...I am
not as prepared as some of our viewers! I have a well for water with an
electric pump, so if the power goes out (and it does go out now and then!)
I don't have water. I need to look into installing a manual water pump,
and I have several gallons of fresh drinking water stored for emergency
use.
I also try to stay
well-stocked on pet food and medical items. I do have several flashlights,
batteries, gas stove, and other equipment used for camping that can also
double as emergency equipment. I just need to get better organized!
Share
Your Emergency Preparedness Tips
Join
in the discussion! Share what you and your family are doing to
'be prepared', and how that involves your pet companion(s).
-
Related Links for Pet Owners and Vets -
This is an excellent
4-part series on canine first aid for a variety of situations and conditions:
See what they are saying in the
FORUM
about emergency first aid kits.
Graphics by Janet Tobiassen
Crosby DVM | Photos by Hemera Technologies
Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby. All rights reserved.
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