Disaster Planning Includes Pets.

Plan ahead and include your pet in your family’s preparations.

Hurricane Preparedness – Hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, floods and hazardous or toxic material spills are just a few of the disasters we face living along the Texas Gulf Coast. Preparing your pet for a disaster today might save his/her life. If you are going to evacuate, take your pet(s) with you. Some important steps to ensure your pets safety:

Identification

Make sure your pet wears a collar and I.D. tag with up-to-date information. You may also want to consider microchipping your pet for permanent identification.

Vaccinations

All pets should be current on their shots. Keep a copy of the vaccination records sealed in a plastic bag.

Every animal in your house should have a crate – a molded plastic carrying case. Familiarize your pet with the crate before the disaster strikes so that they will be comfortable when it is necessary.

Sleeping Quarters

Help your animals avoid shattering glass and falling objects. Don’t place your pet’s bed below windows or shelving.

A home away from home

Make sure your pet wears a collar and I.D. tag with up-to-date information. You may also want to consider microchipping your pet for permanent identification.

Check your yard

Make sure all fencing is secure and all holes and potential escape routes are blocked.

Plan ahead

Identify animal shelters, local boarding facilities, veterinarians, motels and friends or relatives that may temporarily house your pet after a disaster.

If you evacuate, take your pet!

A Disaster Preparedness Checklist

Use this checklist as a guide for building your own disaster preparedness kit for your pet.

  • Molded plastic pet carrier

  • Copy of your pet’s rabies and vaccination records sealed in a plastic bag

  • Pet first aid book and kit

  • Two-week supply of pet food

  • Bottled water

  • One-month supply of your pet’s regular medications

  • Non-spill food and water bowls

  • Cat litter / Cat litter pan

  • Leash

  • Plastic bags (for pet waste disposal)

  • Sheets (one to cover each pet carrier)

  • Blankets

  • Non-electric can opener

  • Newspaper

  • Disinfectants

  • Paper Towels

  • Comb/Brush

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