Emergency Preparation For Your Pets


FOOD AND WATER:


Along with the family's emergency supplies, store at least a two week supply of canned and dry pet food (be sure to check dated shelf life). Remember that under normal conditions, a 40 pound dog needs a minimum of a gallon of water a day, larger dogs need more, and cats require about a quart. Of course , for other types of pets, follow the same logic in meeting their basic food and water needs.


PET SUPPLIES:


A can opener - A twin size heavy blanket - A set of water and feed bowls -
An extra collar and leash (10 ft) - A grooming brush and pooper scooper -
For a cat, have a carry cage in storage
- It is best to have two
different sizes of collapsible wire cages complete with folding covers.


DOCUMENTS:


Copies of dog license
Rabies vaccination certificate
Other pet records
Photos taken within the past year

MEDICAL:

For pets that are on special medication, keep an extra two week supply in storage. Follow the vets instruction regarding storing medicine.

If your pet is exceptionally high strung, ask your veterinarian about keeping a small supply of tranquilizers on hand.

Keep your pets vaccinations up to date. During a disaster, pets may stray and become exposed to infectious diseases.


FIRST AID FOR YOUR PETS:


Use caution when handling injured pets. All animals may bite when in pain or when checking your
pets temperature with a rectal thermometer. Lightly coat the thermometer with KY jelly, leave it inside the rectum for one to two minutes. Normal temperature for a dog is 102, and 101 F.

For a cat. A slight increase may be due to excitability. A more severe increase could mean a fever. A decrease in the normal body temperature usually indicates shock. In suspected shock cases, try to keep your pet calm and quiet. Wrap your pet in blankets or towels to maintain the proper body temperature. Seek professional veterinary help as soon as possible for serious injuries.


THREE VERY IMPORTANT TIPS:


1. When pets are suddenly scared they often run away and become confused and lost. Make sure your pets wear a current license and personal I.D. tag that includes: the pets name, address and phone number. Cats should also wear a personal I.D. tag.

2. Contact several relatives or close friends who will be willing to house and care for your pets in the event of an emergency.

3. Know the name, address and phone number of the local animal control agencies and human societies.


AFTER THE EMERGENCY:


Examine your pet for injuries. Do not allow your pet to roam.
Secure your pet in undamaged structures, rooms, cages, or on tie lines.
If your pet is missing contact your local animal shelter as soon as possible.




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