Small Animal Disaster Preparedness
Each year disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes affect our county. You need to prepare for yourself and for your pets in case of a disaster. Short-term evacuations may become extended evacuations so take your pets with you.
Preparation involves:
1. Consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s needs.
2. Prepare your pet’s evacuation kit and plan in a waterproof container. This kit includes:
Your identification: name, address, phone/cell number.
Identification of your pet: species (i.e. cat, dog, etc.), breed (Siamese, Lab, etc.), color, age, sex, current rabies license/tag, veterinarian contact information, vaccination and major medical records, and microchip identification/number.
Pet supplies: One carrier per pet, bedding, leash, collar, harness, medications (dose, frequency), food, water, dishes, manual can opener, litter pan, paper towels, trash bags, and toys.
3. Familiarize your pet with the carrier. Carriers for dogs need to be large enough for the dog to stand and turn around in while inside. Carriers for cats need to be large enough for the cat to lie down inside with the litter box and bowls. Carriers should be labeled with your identification, your pet’s identification and your veterinarian’s identification.
4. Locate evacuation sites, such as shelters, hotels, kennels, veterinarians, friends, and family. Sarasota County does have some pet friendly evacuation shelters. Another good source for evacuation sites is Pet Pages.
Your pets thank you for being proactive and preparing before the crisis. Please consult your veterinarian with your questions.
Presented by Thom A. Smith, DVM Clark Road Animal Clinic, Sarasota, FL 34233 (941) 922-5007
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