With global warming and the state of the world in general, how can one do his or her best to protect companion animal family members? If you have to evacuate, they have to evacuate! What can you do in disaster preparedness for companion animals?
Have A Plan and Take Action with Disaster Preparedness for Companion Animals!
Research a safe place you can take your companion animals before emergencies happen. Many hotels or shelters for people do not allow animals! Find out who does accept animals along your route of evacuation. Some places will waive the “No Pets” policy in times of emergency. Find out in advance.
Most American Red Cross shelters cannot accept animals because of “health and safety concerns.” Service animals that assist people with disabilities are allowed in Red Cross Shelters. Here are more tips from the American Red Cross: safety tips for traveling with your pet.
Microchipping is critical. Be sure your animal companions are microchipped and that the contact information is current
A buddy system is your backup if you are unable to get to your companion animals for care or evacuation. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to help each other should the need arise.
Always bring animals inside at first sign of disasters.
Be sure your companion animals have ID tags on their collars with current information.
Include your animals in evacuation drills so that they become familiar with entering and traveling in their carriers calmly. Practice carrier loading and unloading without fear by leaving the carrier(s’) doors open. Add treats and a blanket inside. Make it a safe, go-to place for them.
Keep An Emergency Kit Accessible To Take With You
The kit should include:
- Leashes, harnesses
- A sturdy carrier
- Food, drinking water, bowls
- For cats, litter, a box if possible
- Medications
- First aid kit
- Current photos in case you are separated
- A towel or blanket
- A list of your contacts and your veterinarian in case of emergency
Help Emergency Workers Find Your Pets
The ASPCA recommends using a rescue sticker alert » to let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes the types and number of pets in your household
Keep Livestock and Larger or Numerous Animals Safe
- Consider a precautionary evacuation of your animals, especially any large or numerous animals. Waiting until the last-minute could be fatal for them and dangerous for you.
- Where possible, move livestock to higher ground. If using a horse or other trailer to evacuate your animals, move sooner rather than later.
- Bringing an animal indoors helps you maintain direct control of them. Be sure that your pet emergency kit is ready to go!
Red Cross Safety Check list link: Pets and Disaster Safety Checklist – English
Be Safe! Plan Ahead!
Photo 1: © Mike De Sisti Milwuakee Journal Sentinel –
Erin Robbins (left) Vice president of the Pet Programs of the Greater Good Charities and Jessie Wermager, with the Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) of Waukesha County load a dog from an airplane at the Waukesha County Airport in Waukesha on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. 88 dogs and 44 cats arrived at the airport from shelters in South Carolina affected b Hurricane Helene.
Photo 2: © IFAW Caring for cats evacuated from the Mexican island of Holbox in advance of Hurricane Helene making landfall.
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