When severe weather approaches, keep pets’ safety in mind

Pets are important members of the family, so they need to be included in every family’s emergency plan. To prepare for the unexpected, follow these tips with pets in mind:

Making a plan is the first step.

Those who have a plan in place that includes their pets will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry when they need to make decisions during an emergency. If local officials ask people to evacuate, that means their pets should evacuate too. If they are left behind, they may end up lost, injured or worse.

Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Pet owners should already know a safe place where they can take their animals before disasters and emergencies happen.

Develop a buddy system. Pet owners can plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate pets if they are unable to do so themselves.

Have pets microchipped. Make sure to keep records of the address and phone number updated, and include contact information for an emergency person outside the immediate area.

Contact the local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get additional advice and information on how to care for pets in case of an emergency.

Food and first aid

Just as everyone should have their family’s emergency supply kit ready, there should be a kit to include supplies for each pet. Think first about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Have two kits, one larger kit for sheltering in place and a lightweight version to use if ordered to evacuate. Review the kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.

Some items to include in a pet emergency kit are several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container; a water bowl and several days’ supply of water; and an extra supply of the medicines each pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.

A pet first aid kit is also a good idea; asking a local veterinarian about what is most appropriate for each pet’s emergency medical needs would be helpful.

Each pet should wear a collar with ID tag, and a harness or leash should be taken along. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag. Have copies of each pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.

A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet, will make transportation much more workable.

Grooming items including pet shampoo, conditioner and other items will be helpful in case the pet needs cleaning up.

Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, and newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for pets’ sanitation needs.

A picture of owner and pet together may be vital if they become separated during an emergency. It will help document ownership and allow others to assist in identifying/returning the pet.

Favorite toys, treats or bedding can be included in the kit to help reduce stress for the pet.

Make note in advance of where pets may hide, so they can easily be found in case of an emergency evacuation.

What about large animals?

Pets such as horses, goats or pigs may have to be left behind, but all animals should have some form of identification.

Evacuate animals earlier, whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.

Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal, along with experienced handlers and drivers.

Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment.

If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to a barn or turn them loose outside.

Being prepared and staying informed of current conditions is vital. Pay attention to wireless alerts and warnings sent by state and local public safety officials.

Listen to local officials when told to evacuate or shelter in place.

Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.