National Pet Appreciation Week is being observed during the first week of June. In order to be involved, veterinarians can use this time to launch a discussion that directs clients to show appreciation to their pets by protecting them in times of an emergency.

Plan for Emergencies to Protect Your Pet

Remind clients that pets are at increased risk during times of crisis. In an effort to show they appreciate their furry family member, encourage them to take the steps to establish a preparedness plan before an emergency occurs.

Collect Information

One of the first steps to complete requires collecting information that may prove essential during an emergency. This information needs to be placed inside a water tight bag or container and should include:

 

• Emergency Contacts
• Pet owner's name, address, phone numbers
• Name, address, phone number of a friends or family members that owner may go to for help
• Veterinarian’s name, clinic name, address, phone numbers, directions
• Name of the closest emergency animal hospital, address, phone numbers, directions, or when there is no emergency animal hospital, include the name and all information of the closest emergency room facility
• Name and contact numbers of local animal ambulance service
• Animal Poison Control Center Hotline Number: 1-888-426-4435.
• Health Records for Each Animal
• A maintained and up-to-date copy of all health records should be kept within the first aid kit, including information such as:
• Background medical information
• Shot records
• Description of health needs, for example: special diet restrictions
• List of medicines taken, dose, and regimen
• Background information in case the animal is boarded or treated by an unknown facility or veterinarian
• Current picture of the pet
• Microchip number and phone contact information
• Rabies tag number
• Dog license number

Storage

Supplies should be kept in a waterproof container that has been designated and identified for emergency use. A clear lidded tote allows for instant content recognition, provides protection from the elements, and can be easily transported. The container should be kept in a place that allows for quick and easy access and all family members should know of its location.

Daily Supplies

A supply of food and water need to be set aside for an emergency. Since food spoils and water gets stale, it is advised to rotate new supplies with old every two months. Within storage, each pet should have:

 

• Food
• Enough to last for three to seven days
• Water
• Enough for seven days

Within storage, clients should plan to include:

• Food and water bowls
• Extra leash and a collar with its own pet identification tag
• Items for cleaning
• Liquid dish soap
• Paper towels
• Disinfectant
• Trash bags
• Towels
• Cat litter and tray
• Portable crate and bedding
• Flashlight

First Aid and Medicine

Clients should be advised to create a waterproof medicine box that contains a two week supply of the medicines required by each pet. Remind them that of the importance to rotate medications as needed.
A pet first aid kit should also be created, and should include items such as:

 

• First Aid Book
• Adhesive tape and gauze
• Antiseptic wipes, antibacterial cream or spray
• Foil or emergency blankets
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Cotton swabs
• Syringe

Rescue Alert

Explain to clients that in the event of an evacuation, there are steps they can take to help speed the efforts of rescue workers.

 

• Using a wide permanent marker, a write a message on entry and exit doors that informs:
• That all pets have been evacuated from the building
• The number and types of pets left inside the building
• The number and types of animals left on premises
• Veterinary contact information

There is no better way for clients to show they appreciate their pets than by taking steps to help to keep them safe.

If you are interested in additional ways to offer tips to clients to protect the health of their pets, please contact your Covetrus representative at 855.724.3461.

Sources:

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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