Do you have an emergency plan for your pet?

We understand that in the current climate you may feel somewhat overwhelmed. Between global pandemics, natural disasters and world events, planning for your own unexpected or emergency situation can take a back seat.    

Remember, planning for your pet is a part of responsible pet ownership, it might not even have to fall into the category of an emergency, it may just be that you need temporary accommodation while a damaged roof is repaired or your home's plumbing decides to call it a day. Being prepared will give you the ability to safely evacuate your pet at any time needed.

Here are some things to think about in designing your ‘pet safety plan’:

Where will you relocate your pet to if safe to do so?

• Contact other family members or friends to see if they are a suitable option to care for your pet
• Keep contact details of pet boarding facilities accessible, both locally and in neighboring areas
• Have sufficient  food to transport with your pet, especially if your pet is on a special diet

How will you transport your pet?

• Ensure each pet has their own suitable carrier / lead / crate
• Do you need to arrange someone that can assist you with transporting your pet?
• Does your pet transport calmly and does this need to be taken into consideration?
• Take familiar items such as bedding/toys to provide reassurance for your pet

Medications

• Ensure you have copies of your pets health records eg  Vaccination certificate, medical scripts
• Keep medications for your pet in a single location so its easy to collect and go
• Make sure medication labels are clear and instructions easy to understand if your pet is staying somewhere else for a while

Pet Contact Details

• Have your microchip details up to date
• Make sure each pet has an identifiable collar and tag with your phone number in case you unexpectedly become separated from your pet.
• Take with you your pets veterinary details

Practice your Pet Safety Plan so that you are prepared for the unexpected and your pet is safe.

Create a Pet Evacuation Kit 

Keep important pet records and items centrally, have spares if possible eg spare dog lead, pet tags; ensure all relevant contact details are printed in hard copy and in your electronic systems.

We have created a Pet Evacuation Kit Checklist below; remember to keep it up to date!