The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has published a pamphlet recommending that pet owners prepare for an emergency by creating an emergency supply kit and making sure that the items in the kit are fresh.
The emergency kit should contain enough food for at least three days; medical records and medicines; a pet first aid kit; a collar with ID tag, harness and leash; a crate or other pet carrier and items to include for pet sanitation, such as a litterbox and cleaning supplies, according to the booklet.
The pamphlet, entitled Preparing Your Pets for Emergencies Makes Sense. Get Ready Now, also recommends creating a plan to know what you will do in an emergency and to stay informed as to the different types of emergencies.
For example, the pamphlet recommends creating a backup emergency plan in case you can't care for your animals yourself.
Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer, one segment reads.
The information in the pamphlet was developed by the Department of Homeland Security in consultation with the American Kennel Club, the ASPCA, the American Veterinary Medical Association and Humane Society of the United States.
The document can be downloaded in pdf format at http://www.ready.gov/america/_downloads/pets.pdf.
Posted: June 8, 2006, 5:00 a.m. EST