Getting Ready

Helping clients recognize their need for an established preparedness plan will help them to face any situation with more confidence.  The first step is collecting information. Saving a record of the material to a USB drive or computer is helpful, but having a paper copy is important to have on hand during an emergency. The collected information includes:  

• Emergency Contacts
• Health Records

Additional items that may be helpful include:

• Current picture of the pet
• Microchip number and phone contact information
• Rabies tag number
• Dog license number

To keep the information safe, place the documents into a bag that can be closed and made watertight.

Container

Having the recommended supplies on hand is not a benefit unless they are kept in a container that is designated for this use. A clear lidded tote, for example, where the contents can be instantly recognized and remain dry is a good choice for holding emergency supplies. The next point to impress upon clients is that the container needs to be kept in a place of easy access, and all family members should be aware of its purpose and location.

Food and Water

For each pet, the ASPCA recommends:

• Storing enough canned or dry food to last for three to seven days
• Maintaining seven days of water needs
• Rotating the supplies of food and water from the supply kit every two months

Clients should be reminded to also place the following items within the kit:

• Bowls for food and water
• Extra leash and collar with its own pet identification tag
• Portable crate for each pet with bedding
• Items to use for clean-up, for example:
• Towels
• Cat litter and tray
• Flashlight

First Aid and Medicines

For pets requiring medicine, advise clients to:

• Maintain a two week supply
• Rotate the medicines from the kit as needed.

Veterinarians may suggest clients keep first aid supplies within their kit, including items such as:

• First Aid Book
• Adhesive tape and gauze
• Antiseptic wipes, antibacterial cream or spray
• Foil or emergency blanket
• Tweezers
• Blunt-tipped scissors
• Cotton balls and swabs

Rescue Alert Information

Clients should be advised that in case an evacuation is necessary, the ASPCA recommends providing a written notification to rescue workers that:

• Is easily seen, for example, written with a wide permanent marker on front or back doors
• Identifies:
• Provides veterinary contact information, if animals are left.

When veterinarians discuss with clients their need for a pet preparedness plan, they begin the process that may protect them during a disaster.

Contact your Covetrus representative at 855.724.3461 to discuss more ways to prepare your clients.

Information taken from:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/pet_first_aid_kit.html

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