Pets are important members of the family, but they can sometimes be forgotten during emergency planning until a disaster has already struck. One of the most important steps you can take is to have an emergency kit ready, and include any necessary items for your pet. Ready.gov/pets has suggestions for items to include. Other actions you can take to protect your pets include the following. Have an evacuation plan for your pet. Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen. Evacuate large animals earlier, whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance. Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Have your pet microchipped. Make sure to keep your address and phone number up-to-date and include contact information for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area. Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pet Preparedness Month Information Sourced from Ready.gov/pets
Fireworks Safety & Prep for Pets Information Sourced from American Veterinary Medical Association
Since June is both Fireworks Safety & Pet Preparedness Month, it seems like an appropriate time to consider ways to help pets during the upcoming celebrations. While usually fun for humans, fireworks are a well-established stressor for many pets. Take some steps before celebrations start to make sure your pets are ready. Make sure your pets—cats and dogs alike—have identification tags with up-to-date information. If you have horses, consider a safety (breakaway) halter with your contact information and leaving it on your horse during this stressful time.
If your pets aren’t already microchipped, talk with your veterinarian about microchipping. This simple procedure can greatly improve your chances of getting your pets back if they become lost. Leave your pets at home when you go to parties, fireworks displays, parades and other gatherings. Loud fireworks, unfamiliar places and crowds can all be very frightening to pets, and there's great risk of pets becoming spooked and running away. Consider putting your pets in a safe, escape-proof room or crate during parties and fireworks. Keep horses and livestock in safely fenced areas and as far from the excitement and noise as possible. Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks, charcoal and kabob skewers away from curious pets. Don't let pets get near your barbecue grill while it is in use or still hot.
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