How to Keep Your Dog Safe During a Disaster

With the recent tragedy of the bushfires in Victoria and flooding in Northern Queensland, there has never been a more pertinent time to think about what you would do with your dog should a natural disaster strike. We have outlined some tips to ensure your favourite furry friend is well cared for during an emergency.

Preparation Tips:

• Ensure you have your contact information, including an alternative contact, on your dog’s ID tags and microchip registrations. Proper means of identification can help reunite you with your dog in case a natural disaster separates you from one another.
• Prepare an emergency kit containing water, food, medications, health records, photos to prove ownership, leashes, collars and extra ID tags.
• Create a list of places you can take your dog in a time of emergency such as a friend or family member’s home, an animal shelter, hotels that allow pets or a boarding facility.
• Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are always up to date.
• Keep on hand a portable carrier with enough room for your dog to stand and turn around in. It is easier to transport your dog in a time of disaster if they are contained in a carrier. Put some of their favourite toys and their normal bedding inside the carrier to make it as comfortable as possible for them. Also, train your dog so it is comfortable in the carrier.
• Prepare a first aid kit for your dog and include vet contact information.
• Create a backup plan in case you aren’t home at the time the disaster strikes. Ask your neighbours to assist in case of any emergency to help evacuate your dog, give them a key and make sure they are familiar with your pet and that they know where you keep the pet emergency kit.
• Put a sticker on your front door that indicates that a dog resides in your home which will alert rescue people that there is a pet in the house in the event you are not there during the disaster.

During a Disaster:

• Bring your dog inside when the threat of a natural disaster is imminent.
• Try to bring your dog with you when evacuating. This reduces the chance of them becoming hurt, lost or even worse.
• Always plan to leave and evacuate early. The longer you leave it you reduce the chance of being able to take your dog with you.
• Following a natural disaster, dogs can often feel confused and lost as familiar scents and landmarks may have changed. Therefore, for the first few days after the event make sure you tie your dog on a leash when they go outside and always maintain close contact and watch them closely.

Further Reading:

http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/adoption-pet-care/safety/preparing-for-disaster.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_2193310_protect-pets-during-natural-disasters.html
http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=7595&cn=322