Thinking about having to go through some disaster is never fun. But being prepared for one will ease your mind and give you a little peace.
When something significant disrupts our lives, it can be challenging to do just the basics, eating, drinking clean water, keeping warm, etc. But, in today's day and age, many people are making disaster preparedness kits, and if they don't have one yet, they know they should.
What about the pets? Pets need their own separate kit, so they too have what they need to survive during tough times.
The Diggity Dog Store has put together a list for you of items that should be in a dog emergency kit. Most of these ideas will cross over easily to our cat kids too.
Make sure that you know what kinds of disasters can happen in your area, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, wildfires. Get up to speed on any evacuation routes you need to know and learn them in advance.
Now you are ready to make a plan. First, find out where you can go with your pets. Write down a few different places, in case some don't work out. Have a list inside of the emergency kit with phone numbers, addresses, and directions.
Make a plan with the neighbors. If you aren't home or can't get back home, you know you have a trusted person who can help with your animals. And vise Versa. This way, you will be assured your dog won't be alone. Make sure you keep your neighbor's information up to date, and you carry it with you.
Hide a key or give your neighbors a key; that way, they can enter your home and check on the animals, or if they need, they can get to your emergency kit, even if you aren't home.
Below is a list of the items you should stock in your emergency kit.
Bottled Water
Two weeks of dog foodCollapsible food and water bowls
Blankets
Leash, Collar, and Harness
Light up tag
Sweater and Raincoat if in cold rainy areas
Dog booties/shoes
Lifejacket
Medical emergency kit
Flashlight & extra batteries
Vaccination records and health records
Microchip number
Veterinary address and phone number
Rabies certificate
List of medications
List of contacts names and numbers
A couple of photos of your pets in case they get lost.
Now that you have your kit all ready, make sure you put it where you can find it easily.
Change the food and water once every 6 months. Change any items you think need to be changed.
Remember to keep the contact lists up to date. With the kit in place, you can rest easy knowing that your pup will be okay.
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