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Before a Disaster

• Store enough food and water to last at least three days.
   
• Prepare an evacuation kit for your pet. The kit should include:
   
  • An unbreakable dish
     
  • Medications and instructions
     
  • A leash or pet carrier, and
     
  • Your pet’s veterinary records
     
• Consider having a permanent microchip implanted in your pet; this ID cannot be lost or removed. See your veterinarian for more information.
   
• Make arrangements with a neighbor or close relative to care for your pet in the event you are unable to return home immediately following a disaster.
   
• Make sure your pet’s ID tag is up to date with accurate information.
   
• Secure bird cages and fish tanks. They can move and break during a disaster, especially an earthquake. Secure fish tanks with industrial strength Velcro and have the tanks on low stands or tables. Tighten the latch on your bird cage so that the door cannot be shaken open easily.

During and After a Disaster

• If the ground starts shaking, do not try to hold onto your pet during the shaking. Animals will instinctively protect themselves and hide where they’re safe.
   
• Be patient with your pets after a disaster. Pets get stressed just as people do and may need time to readjust.
   
• Make arrangements for your pet if you must evacuate after a disaster.
   
• Remember, pets are not allowed in shelters. Leave your pet in a secure place with ample water and food. If possible, return daily to check on your pet until you can return to your home permanently.

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Pet Disaster Supply Kit
Your pet depends on you for care after a disaster. The following are items you should place in a pet disaster supply kit. Prepare your kit before a disaster occurs.

Pet Emergency Supplies

• Sturdy crate as a pet carrier
   
• Identification tag containing accurate, up-to-date information
   
• A sturdy leash
   
• Food and water for at least three days
   
• Non-spill bowl
   
• Portable litter box and litter
   
• Large plastic bags for cat litter disposal and dog clean up
   
• Prescriptions and special medications
   
• Manual can opener
   
• A copy of your pet’s veterinary records
   
• Recent photo of your pet
   
• Blankets
   
• Paper towels
   
• Phone number of the local emergency veterinary clinic
   
• Phone number of your local and county animal shelter

Pet First Aid Kit

• Large and small bandages
   
• Scissors
   
• Tweezers
   
• Q-tips
   
• Antibiotic ointment
   
• Hydrogen peroxide
   
• Elastic tape
   
• Eye wash (saline)
   
• Ear cleaning solutions