Pet Disaster Plan

1. Get your pet a microchip and include the information in a waterproof Pet ID Kit. If you don't have a microchip yet, talk with your veterinarian about the benefits. The microchip is a requirement at many emergency animal shelters. Some shelters also require a pet tattoo.

2. Make sure all vaccinations are up to date.

3. Make a list of pet-friendly hotels, vets and boarding facilities that are close to the interstate or an evacuation route. Ask about payment methods and be prepared for possible security deposits.

4. Make a list of reliable friends or family who could shelter your pet during a storm or other disaster. Designate a place and make a plan.

5. Pre-register pets at nearby animal emergency shelters and plan ahead regarding transportation and pet carriers, if needed. Remember that if you evacuate to a shelter with your pet, you must bring along your own food, water and blanket.

6. Assemble a Pet ID Kit for each pet and place the information in a waterproof package that contains:

o A recent photo of pet and owner

o License, vaccination and medical records

o Microchip information

o Any special care instructions

Remember to ID all photos and paperwork in indelible ink.

7. Leave early with your family and pets, and bring:

o Pet ID kits as described above

o Cage or carrier, one for each household pet, large enough for pet to stand up and turn around inside.

o Leash, collar, muzzles if necessary, and current rabies tag.

o Minimum 7-day supply of food and water per pet. Canned food is recommended to avoid moisture and spoilage. Include a manual can opener.

o Bowls for food and water

o Kitty litter, newspapers and plastic bags for waste disposal; paper towels and bleach also useful.

o Pet medications and special care instructions

o Comfort items, such as toys and blankets.

If You Plan To Stay Home:

• Bring pets indoors.

• Prepare an area away from windows or use a pet carrier.

• Have a two-week supply of food on hand.

• Provide one-half to one gallon of water per day per pet.

• Have access to current rabies tag and license, vaccination information and special medications.

• Use familiar food bowls, water bowls, bedding and leashes.

• Have some available grooming supplies, as well as newspapers, cat litter, scoop and plastic bags for waste disposal.

• Paper towels and bleach are also useful.

• Let haltered livestock roam in fenced pastures away from flying debris and overhead power lines. Provide uncontaminated water. Ensure your livestock can be identified later.

After the storm or other disaster has passed, be careful when you allow your pet outside. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered, and your pet easily could become confused and lost! Downed power lines, predatory animals, insects, and contaminated water are all post-storm threats to your pet's well being.

This information was provided courtesy of many Humane Society web sites, which always provide local details about weather conditions and area disaster plans.