Are you prepared for a Disaster?  
(copyright © 2001-2002 Linda K. Lawrie. All Rights Reserved.)

Though we little like to think of the events of September 11, they are etched forever in our minds.  Other kinds of disasters may similarly catch us unawares: tornadoes, floods.  Are your pets ready for these events?  Of course, I don't mean are the pets ready -- is the information ready for someone to rescue your pets in the event you cannot be there when something happens.

There are (at least) two approaches to preparing for disasters:  1) You will be evacuating your house or otherwise disrupting your usual life and 2) You will be away from your pets when the disaster strikes.  To an extent, it is very hard to even think about #2 where unforeseen things happen to you but these are addressed extensively in a book called "Out of Harm's Way", by Terri Crisp who has been instrumental in the forming of the Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS) and the United Animal Nations (http://www.uan.org).  It has good information and should be considered.

The information in this article focuses more on the evacuation procedures as discusses in the US Humane Society's brochure: http://www.hsus.org/disaster/brochure091499.html

The (condensed) contents of the brochure:

Have a Plan
This is, of course, the most important part of being prepared.  Think about things ahead of time -- even if you don't follow all the recommendations to the letter.  Having a plan for emergencies will give you a step up.  If you are going to be evacuated from your home, the general advice is to evacuate your pets as well.  From Out of Harm's Way: "A rule of thumb when trying to decide whether to leave a dog or cat behind in a disaster is to ask yourself, Is the situation safe enough to leave a child behind?  More than likely, the answer will always be no.  So, in that case, never leave your pets behind, no matter who tells you it is safe to do it."

1)  Have a Safe Place to Take your Pets
For health and other state regulations, American Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets (service animals are exceptions).  Do your research beforehand.  Be aware of local hotels who will accept pets and what their restrictions are.  Contact other friends and family outside your immediate area to see if they would accept your pets in an emergency.  Keep a list of local boarding and vet facilities that might board in an emergency.

2)  Assemble a Portable Pet Disaster Supplies Kit
If you can't always have this stored beforehand, know where everything is so that you can (even at the last minute) put things together.  Duffle bags or easily carried containers can be used.  Have on hand: medications and medical records -- including name of your veterinarian -- (put in waterproof container), first aid kit, extra leashes, harnesses, current photos of your pets, food, potable water, can opener, plastic can cover, a few toys and beds (if possible).

3)  Know What to do When the Disaster Approaches
At the first hint of approaching disaster, act to save your pet.  Call ahead to confirm your emergency shelter arrangements.  Make sure your disaster supplies are ready to "grab and run".  Have all the pets in the same area.  Make sure all pets are wearing good collars with up to date identification -- consider emergency type identification procedures (tape over tags and provide emergency shelter information).

If you might not be home at the time, see if a trusted neighbor is willing to meet you at another place with your pets.  Of course, this person will need access to your home, familiarity with your pets, knowledge of your disaster plan, etc.  Those with petsitting services may also be able to call on your pet sitter for this.

Remember that animals may react differently under stress -- keep all securely leashed.  Don't leave them unattended where even the most trustworthy may try to run off.