September is National Preparedness Month, and if you share your home with a dog or cat, there is one question worth asking yourself right now: if a storm hit tonight, would your pet be ready?
Hurricanes, flooding, and extreme weather affect many parts of the country this time of year. The ASPCA says having a plan in place before trouble arrives is the best thing you can do for the animal who depends on you.
Pack a Go Bag for Your Pet
A go bag is exactly what it sounds like, a bag packed and ready to grab when you have to leave in a hurry. Keep it somewhere you can reach quickly.
The ASPCA recommends including:
- Food and water for at least seven to ten days
- A water bowl, feeding dish, and manual can opener if needed
- Two weeks of your pet’s medications
- A spare collar and leash
- A copy or USB drive of important medical records
- Familiar toys or bedding to help your pet feel calm
- Litter or newspaper for cats
- Garbage bags
- A pet first aid kit
- Any carriers or crates your pet will need
A Few More Things to Have in Order
Emergency shelters do not always allow pets. Before a storm season arrives, write down the names of nearby boarding facilities, pet-friendly hotels, or friends who could take you and your pet in.
Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and ID tag with their name, your phone number, and any urgent medical needs. Write your contact information on the carrier itself as well.
The ASPCA also recommends microchipping as a permanent form of identification. A microchip is implanted under the skin at the shoulder and can be read by a scanner at most shelters. If your pet is already chipped, check that the registration has your current contact information.
If the worst happens and you must leave your pet at home, post a safety alert in a visible spot near the front door. It lets emergency responders know an animal is inside.
If Storms Make Your Pet Anxious
Many pets are frightened by loud thunder, high winds, or the general tension that fills a house before a storm. That is completely normal. The ASPCA notes that there are things you can do at home to help a scared pet stay calm during emergency situations.
The best time to prepare is before you ever need any of it. A little planning now means one less worry when the skies turn dark.
