Ready, Set, Plan for Your Pet

Disasters like hurricanes and floods can occur with little or no warning. Families may be asked to evacuate their homes in a hurry. Thanks to the new Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act, pets no longer need to be left behind in an emergency. Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice with all the members of your family.

Plan Ahead!
Having a plan and being prepared in an emergency makes the situation less scary for everyone. Talk with your family. Tell them how important it is to have a plan for your pet in an emergency. Then take these steps before a disaster strikes.

• Check with local emergency preparedness authorities to learn the disaster plans for people with pets in your area. Share the information with pet guardians you know.
   
• Put together an emergency kit for pets. Pack necessary items such as pet food, bottled water, leashes, and pet medicines in an easy to carry container. (For a complete list of items for your kit, click here.)
  
• Make a checklist of the items in your emergency kit. Give a copy of the list to your neighbors so they can prepare kits too. Offer to make copies for your local animal shelter to hand out. Ask at city hall if they would like to hand out copies to people who come in to license pets. Remind pet guardians to be sure their pets always wear collars and ID tags.
   
• Make a plan for what will happen if your neighborhood is evacuated when you're not home. Arrange with a trusted neighbor to gather your pets and meet at an agreed-upon location. Be sure that person knows where your emergency kit is kept. Offer to do the same for your neighbors with pets.

You'll find more helpful hints on being prepared for emergencies here.