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Is your pet microchipped? The majority of shelters have a scanning device that can read the microchip that is placed under your pet's skin. The microchip carries important identifying information for your pet and can be provided at many shelters and vet’s offices for a nominal fee in a matter of seconds.
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Make sure your pet has a collar with updated identification tags. This is a simple way for people to contact you if your pet has been found.
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Find out where lost pets are taken in your neighborhood if there is a disaster. Some cities have a central location where pet's are placed for the first 24-48 hours before being relocated to area shelters. Save yourself time by doing a little research now!
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Have a sign in your window so emergency personnel know that there is a pet inside your home that needs to be rescued. If you need one, contact me and I'll mail you one ... lori@tantelori.com
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Have a designated person(s) to check in on your pet in case of an emergency. Give them a list of reputable boarding options just in case they are not able to take your pet into their own home.
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Where are your local emergency vet clinics? You do not want to be scrambling for this information when your dog needs immediate care. Tac on a bulletin board (or other easily accessed place) local vet information with phone number, hours, address and map with directions.
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Is your pet up to date on vaccinations? If your dog is placed in a shelter, boarding facility, or lost on the street you want to make sure that he is protected against diseases that he would not otherwise be exposed to in your home.
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Where can you go with your pet if you must leave your home unexpectedly? Keep a list of pet-friendly hotels so you know where you can go if you are unable to stay in your home.
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If you have to leave your home, bring familiar objects for your pet. If possible, grab a favorite toy or pet bed with familiar scents that can reduce anxiety in a stressful situation.
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Email yourself or a friend a picture of your pet so you have a picture available to post in case of separation. If pet is lost, you can send the picture to local shelters, local website notice boards, Facebook, etc.
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Make sure your pet is provided for in your Last Will and Testament or write your wishes for your pet and distribute to those that will be responsible for your pet for carrying out your wishes.
A little advanced planning on your part could be the difference between a happy reunion or heartache for you and your pet. While we all pray that we will never need to use this information, having it on hand as a quick reference can bring some peace of mind in an emergency situation.
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