6 Disaster Preparedness Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe

Most households in the U.S. have an emergency disaster kit in their home, but don’t have a plan in place for their pets. These six simple steps will show you how to keep your dog safe in the event of a natural disaster, as well as learn how to prepare a complete dog emergency kit.

1. Get your dog microchipped

When dogs are microchipped, they are much more likely to be reunited with their owners if they become lost. So don’t wait – get your dog microchipped and make sure the information on the chip registry is up-to-date. Click here for more information about microchipping your dog.

2. Make a plan

Include your whole family in your disaster and evacuation plan. Make sure everyone knows where to go and what to do. For example, who gets the dog? Who gets the dog emergency kit? FEMA offers this booklet to help pet owners plan ahead.

3. Be ready for safe transport

Have a carrier or crate for each of your pets and mark it with their name, your name and your contact information. Have a leash ready for your dog to keep them from running away or getting lost in a chaotic situation. Your dog should always have his or her collar on so they’re ready to be hooked to their leash if needed.

4. Prepare a dog emergency kit

Be prepared with an emergency kit especially designed for your dog. Here’s how:

• Start with a waterproof container
• Include a week’s supply of food, water and any medication your dog may need
• Include lightweight food and watering bowls or containers (consider purchasing a bag of freeze-dried food to keep in your kit. This food is much lighter than regular kibble or canned food, leaving more room for the weight of drinking water for your dog).
• Include a favorite toy, treats and familiar bedding
• Pack dog waste bags
• Include a picture of you and your dog in case you get separated and to document ownership
• Include a copy of your dog’s current immunizations, health records and veterinarian contact information. Tip: program your vet’s number and address into your phone for handy reference.

5. Know your dog’s favorite hiding places

Dogs may become frightened in the event of a natural disaster. Be sure to bring your dog inside as bad weather approaches so they don’t get stuck in a place that’s difficult to retrieve them. Know where your dog typically hides when they get scared so you can find them easily if you need to evacuate.

6. Make sure your dog is safe after you return home

Even after a storm has passed, don’t let your dog roam around outside. There could be debris, electrical lines down or other dangers. Familiar landmarks may be gone, leading to your dog getting lost or disoriented. Keep your dog safe and leashed while outdoors until you are sure danger has passed.

Consider Canine Campus as a local boarding option for disaster preparedness. If weather damage is bad enough, you may need to be away from home while repairs are made. Keep in mind that some emergency shelters usually don’t accept pets.

Call Canine Campus at 719-448-9600 to find out if we have availability during or following a natural disaster.

Have you made preparations for your dog in the event of an emergency? What disaster preparedness tips would you add to this list? Please comment below…