Protecting Your Precious Pets from Peril

The next “big one” is coming and, if you live in California, you’re probably expecting it. With any luck, you’ve even assembled an earthquake kit for yourself and your family and have a plan in place. But wait! What about the four-legged members of your family? Did you remember your furry little friends? Just in case you didn’t, read on to find out the best tips to keep your pets safe in the event of an earthquake emergency.
The first thing to consider is ensuring your pet has proper identification. Whether a collar tag or a microchip, keep your pets’ IDs and records up to date in case a catastrophe strikes and you get separated from your loved ones. Another good idea is to keep a recent photo of your pet (after all, they are members of the family too!) on you or even stored on your phone, just in case you need help finding them after getting separated.

Earthquake Safety Kits

Another important part of any earthquake safety kit for humans and animals alike is a good supply of sustenance. Keep canned and dry food on hand in a convenient place (and don’t forget a can opener if you have canned food without a pop-up lid). Like human food, pet food can expire, and to ensure your pet gets the fresh food they need in an emergency, it is prudent to go through your food supply once a year and rotate both dry and wet food. Water is also vital to keeping your pets well. Nearby water sources can become contaminated during an earthquake, and you don’t want your pets drinking tainted water. To avoid this, it’s recommended to have a good supply of bottled water for your pet.

Beware of pets’ habits

Keeping your pets healthy and happy in an emergency is important, and a calm pet might just be what keeps you calm, too, in a potentially scary situation. Additionally, be aware of where your pets tend to hide when scared, as this may be the first place they instinctively go during an earthquake. You might even want to keep treats in an easily accessible location if you need to try to get them to come out of their hiding places and come along with you.

Pet carriers are invaluable in emergencies

Should you have to evacuate your home, it is also a good idea to keep pet carriers handy. Make sure you put bedding in the carriers to make your pet feel most comfortable, especially if you have no choice but to remove them from their comfort zones. If you have to leave your home and go to a shelter, think about bringing along toys or blankets that your pets especially like, as the comfort of home will help them be less stressed in a different environment from the one they are used to. Remember, the more relaxed you and your pets are, the better off everyone will be. Your pets will thank you in their own special way, and you will be much calmer in the face of danger when you and they are both prepared for whatever comes.

For more information, check out:
https://earthshakes.com/ebooks/PetsEarthquakePreparedness.pdf

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/ADEM/Divisions/Preparedness/Earthquake/pets.aspx