Natural disasters are scary for humans and pets. Animals can sense our stress levels and the more stressed we are, the worse they feel. That's why it's crucial to prepare for the possibility of a disaster so you and your pet can manage it safely and calmly. Here are some tips for how to keep your pets safe during a natural disaster:
Just like humans, pets have basic needs during an emergency. If you have an emergency kit for your household, include supplies for your pet to keep them healthy and comfortable. Some things to include in your pet emergency bag include a first aid kit, bottled water and dry food, feeding dishes, cleaning supplies and bags for litter or waste. It's also a good idea to have an extra collar or leash available and a favorite toy or blanket to keep them calm.
Pet microchips can help you find your pets if you're separated from them in an emergency. Your vet can insert them during any routine procedure, but it's most commonly done under anesthesia at a young age when they're spayed or neutered. If your pets are not chipped, consider making an appointment to do so. The chips contain unique ID numbers that correspond with your contact information in a national pet recovery database. If somebody finds your pet wandering during or after a disaster, a microchip will allow them to reunite you.
If a natural disaster occurs, you may end up keeping your pet in a crate, kennel or carrier for protection. Work on establishing a positive connection to the crate or carrier in advance of an emergency so your pet is more comfortable with it. Try placing food or a toy inside the crate to entice them inside and reward them with a treat for positive reinforcement. The more comfortable a pet is with their crate, the easier it will be to put them inside it in a hurry, and the better they'll handle the emergency situation.
Preparing for a natural disaster means preparing to keep everyone in your family safe, including your pets. Use these tips to protect your furry friends in any emergency.
