Protect Your Pet Before Disasters

Your pets should be wearing up-to-date identification at all times. Also include the phone number of a friend or relative outside your immediate area if your pet is lost, you'll want to provide a number on the tag that will be answered even if you're out of your home. Ask your veterinarian about permanent identification that can't slip off, such as a tattoo or imbedded microchip. Carry an updated photograph of your pet to help in locating them if you become separated.

Medical Records and Medication

Include copies of your pets medical records in a Pet Travel Kit and make an additional copy to leave with a family member.

Food & Comfort: Your Pet Travel Kit should have all ready packed packages of food and water and any medication necessary, an extra leash and something comforting to the pet such as a blanket or bedding they are familiar with. Don't forget a bowl and a can opener.

Find a Safe Place Ahead of Time

Because most evacuation shelters generally don't accept pets (except for service animals), you must plan ahead to ensure that your family and pets will have a safe place to stay.

Don't wait until disaster strikes to do your research.

Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals in emergencies; include 24-hour telephone numbers. Ask your local animal shelter if it provides foster care or shelter for pets in an emergency. This should be your last resort, as shelters have limited resources and are likely to be stretched to their limits during an emergency.

Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to check policies on accepting pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size, and species. Ask if "no pet" policies would be waived in an emergency. Make a list of pet-friendly places and keep it handy. Call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home. Check with friends, relatives, or others outside your immediate area. Ask if they would be able to shelter you and your animals or just your animals, if necessary. If you have more than one pet, you may have to be prepared to house them separately.