What would you do to keep your pets safe if, in an instant, our lives were rocked by an earthquake, flood or fire?

Think and Plan Ahead!

Make sure that you have a plan in case of an emergency. Make sure that your pets are not left at home in a disaster. Remember, your pets feel most safe at any time- and especially in an emergency -- when they are with you. Remember to bring their supplies in an emergency. The safety of your pet in a disaster is very important!

Food, Water and Supplies

Be sure you've packed food, water and other supplies -- and keep the supplies in a carrying case or bag you can grab in an emergency. Remember to put all the supplies in a carrying case or bag. You should put only important things in the bag. Supplies to put into the bag include bowls for food and water, food and water in plastic bottles, leashes, kitty litter and a litter box. (A shoe box can be used in an emergency.) For cats, mainly bring dry cat food but if you bring canned cat food then remember to bring a can opener. Bring a portable pet carrier if you don't have one see that you get one and remember that your pet should have enough room to move around in it. You should also put a blanket and a toy in it so it won't feel bewildered.

Pet Carriers and Leashes

Don't forget any regular medication if your pet needs that, First Aid Kit or supplies, health and vaccination records, blankets, name and number of vet, toys, bones, a leash, and a harness. Also remember to have a collar on your pet with an identification tag on it. On the ID tag, put your name, address, and phone number. You can purchase an ID tag at your local pet supply store or at the Humane Society. The shelter to put your pet in is the most important.

Where Do I Go?

If you can't take your pet to a shelter with you don't leave it in the car. It's very dangerous for your pets to be in the car. Instead try leaving your pets at the kennel/vet. If no one at all can take your pet safely, then you must leave it at home. Choose a special room in the house that has a fresh water supply. Do not choose a room with hazards such as hanging plants, pictures in large frames, and windows. There should be a high location in the chosen room in case of a flood. Set up a room for each of your pets. Your pets location could be very important in this situation.

Remember to be prepared with your pets in case of an emergency. A good way to be prepared is to have a bag of supplies ready for a disaster. So, if you want to save your pet from a disaster, then take it to a nearby shelter or local vet. All of these things are very important in an emergency!