September is National Preparedness Month - Make sure you're ready to keep your pets safe in an emergency

Every September, FEMA sponsors National Preparedness Month. The goal is to remind us that natural and man-made disasters can strike at any time, and that it's important to plan ahead so you and your family are ready if disaster strikes. Our pets are family members, so it’s crucial to take special precautions to keep them safe in case of an emergency.

Include Pets in Your Family Emergency Plan - develop a family evacuation plan that includes pet-friendly locations and practice your plan to ensure your pets are included in your overall disaster preparations. 

• Identify pet-friendly locations - map out potential places where you and your pets can stay if you must evacuate, such as pet-friendly hotels, the homes of friends or family, or local animal shelters. 

• Practice getting your pets into their carriers and transporting them to your evacuation locations so they become more comfortable with the process. 

• Develop a buddy system - arrange for a trusted neighbor or friend to care for your pet or to bring them to your designated safe spot if you're not home when an emergency occurs.

Pet Emergency Kit - It’s a good idea to assemble an emergency kit for your pet(s) that’s easy to carry and contains:

• Food & Water: A three-day to one-week supply of your pet's food in an airtight, waterproof container, along with extra water and collapsible bowls 

• Medications: A seven-day supply of essential medications and copies of their medical records, including vaccination records 

• Containment: A sturdy carrier, crate, or pet taxi with the pet's name and your contact information 

• Control: A leash, collar, and harness. 

• First Aid: A basic pet first-aid kit 

• Documents: Copies of important documents such as their license, any proof of ownership you have, and a current photo of you and your pet together 

• Comfort Items: Pack familiar items like their favorite toys or a blanket to help reduce stress during an emergency 

• Sanitation Supplies: Include pet-friendly cleaning supplies and a litter pan if you have a cat 

Microchip Your Pet – a microchip is a reliable form of identification that helps reunite you with your pet if you become separated (see our August blog about microchips for more information). 

For more information, visit https://www.ready.gov/pets.