When the earth shakes, the wind blows or the home is filled with the smell of smoke, most people automatically shift into the self-preservation mode and scramble to preserve their lives and the lives of others in the family. Those who plan ahead and develop contingencies for such emergency situations generally fare better than those who do not. Professionals in the emergency disaster relief field promote emergency evacuation plans for people, because they work.
But what about an emergency plan for our pets? They are family members too. Shouldn't our plans for emergency evacuation include them as well? Thousands of trusting, devoted pets are lost each year due to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods and fires, simply because their people did not have an emergency plan that included them.
With proper planning, many losses and much heartache can be avoided. Having an emergency evacuation plan in place that includes the family pet does not require a lot of effort. It is a task that is very easy to accomplish. The following information and tips are provided to help you develop such a plan.
• Never leave your pet behind unless circumstances absolutely prevent you from taking them. For instance, if the house is crumbling beneath your feet during an earthquake and you can't find the cat, you probably should get yourself and your family to safety first and then, if safe, return to find the cat later. The chances are that a cat or dog will manage to exit the house on their own accord in such a situation, because they don't want to be there either.
In a situation where there is time to plan your evacuation however, such as an approaching fire-line or hurricane, pets should not be left behind. Their lives are as vulnerable to these threats as humans and they need to be protected. Even if they manage to survive, the chance of them running off and not being found is extremely high. If they are found, it will probably be animal control and in the aftermath of a natural disaster, efforts for reuniting pets with their people are not high on the agenda.
• Do not book your pet into a local kennel or temporary shelter unless local authorities determine the shelter will withstand the impending danger. If the facility is in the path of destruction, boarding your pet there will not remove the danger to them. You will probably find that local shelters and kennels will be closed and not accepting business anyway. Additionally, kennels in neighboring towns that are not in harm's way will probably run out of vacancies very quickly.
The best idea is to check with your local shelter or chapter of the SPCA long before the need arises. They may already have all the information you need.
In the absence of having such information, it is suggested that you keep your pet(s) with you. Recently there has been a awakening in the motel/hotel industry to the importance of pets to potential customers and more and more establishments are making provisions for animals. It should be relatively easy to find a motel that will accept your pet for very little additional expense.
• Ensure that your pet's vaccines are up to date and have that paperwork in a place where you can find it quickly if the need to evacuate arises. If your evacuation occurs during the time the disaster is taking place (i.e. the beginning of a hurricane, etc.) make sure your pet has a collar and that the required tags are attached. Without meaning any disrespect, it might be a good time to treat your pet like a piece of luggage by adding an information tag to the collar with your contact information and an alternate family member's (outside the endangered zone) contact information. In the event you are separated from your pet, this could be the one factor that ensures you are reunited.
• Some organizations give advice for situations where you have no choice but to leave your pet(s) at home. Except in those where circumstances prevent you from locating your pet and you must leave immediately (i.e. flood waters rising, etc.) such advice does not resonate with this writer. As a member of the family, they have an expectation of being important too. They depend upon you and you can't let them down.
Just a little effort today may save you a lot of heartache tomorrow. Take the time and draft a plan for pet evacuation.
Related Articles
Win One for the Dogs
By: Gary Kurz | 15/05/2007 | Pets
An encouragement for all pet lovers to be vigilant to the plight of neighborhood animals. Some animals suffer terribly because their owners are negligent. Several methods for remedy without personal involvement are offered.
Pets in Peril
By: Gary Kurz | 29/03/2007 | Pets
Over 20 million animals pass or are lost in the United States each year. Many pass as a result of some tragic happenstance that befalls them. Pet people can remove many of the dangers that their pets face if they are willing to be proactive in their responsibilities.
The Souls of Animals
By: Gary Kurz | 27/02/2007 | Pets
One of the most traumatic experiences for a pet lover is the passing of their best friend. At these times we all ask ourselves "is there an afterlife for animals?" There is overwhelming Biblical evidence that there is.
Don't you Bring your Pet to an Ugly Vet
By: Gary Kurz | 07/05/2007 | Pets
How do you choose a good veterinarian? There are so many horror stories about callousness and poor care; how can I be sure my veterinarian is going to give quality care to the animal I love?
Do You Have Pet Insurance? If Not, You Should Seriously Consider It
By: Jean Morgan | 15/04/2007 | Pets
Most Americans know and understand the importance of health insurance coverage, but very few realize the importance of that same coverage for their pets. Just as you need to go to the doctor for routine and preventative care, so does your pet. If you get seriously ill or injured, you...
Pet Obesity: are You Contributing to Your Pet’s Shortened Life?
By: S. Michael Windsor | 27/09/2007 | Pets
There is an obesity problem that exists today not only in many of our children, as well as many adults, but also in our pets. As many families see their pet as a member of the family and ‘spoil’ them accordingly, research shows that this is actually hurting them in many cases. Pet obesity, just like obesity in humans causes higher risk of diseases as well as shortened lives.
500,000 Pets Fly A Year With 14 Deaths!
By: Natalia Ippolito | 21/05/2007 | Pets
25 MUST KNOW TIPS to keep your pet safe and comfortable when they travel.
Making the Big Decision
By: Gary Kurz | 06/02/2007 | Pets
Too often guilt and doubt follows our decision to help a pet cross over. This should not be. You need to frame your thoughts properly.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
My husband is allergic to our kitten, so we have ...
By: Tiggermom | 07-05-2008
My husband is allergic to our kitten, so we have to keep him in my daughters room. He has lots of toys and a cat tree and a sliding glass door to look out of. We go in and play with him at different times of the day. Would it be best to find him a new home or is it ok for him to stay in only one room?
Preventic Tick Collar
By: DianeB | 04-05-2008
This question is about the Preventic Tick Collar. I have had a horrible time with ticks this spring. I put the Preventic tick collar on my dogs last Wed. It seems to be helping. I did find a totally engorged tick crawling on the wall today. My question is: Can I use the tick collar with a topical tick medicine such as K9 Advantix? I have been told I can.
Moving an occupied bird house
By: Renee001 | 04-05-2008
?I have an occupied bird house with 4 eggs inside on the railing of my deck. We wire tied it so that it would not fall. However, there is a lot of traffic & the birds leave the house everytime we use our back door. My question is - Should we move the bird house or leave it alone? If we should move it please tell me how? Thank you, Renee'
VETS
By: TRACYREZ | 04-05-2008
Does anyone know of a vet in san jose ca that takes payments my mother has a sick dog and dosen't have alot of money?
Recently rescued a 3yr .old cocker spaniel. He ...
By: shutecreek | 03-05-2008
recently rescued a 3yr.old cocker spaniel. He always has a toy in his mouth,just holding not always chewing. Any ideas as to why?
Wild Import Cockatoo
By: CaspersMom | 03-05-2008
Does anyone have any information on wild import birds? I purchase a BE2 that was imported before 1992. How do I get information on him?
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Pets Articles
Is Your Dog Embarrassing You? Get Him Under Your Control In Less Than 2 Weeks!
By: Alan Largo | 17/05/2008
Imaginably the most consequential part of owning a dog is discipline. Being a pet owner, dog obedience becomes solely your responsibility. Because dogs have a different type of disposition that not all dog owners understand, the job of disciplining one typically seems overwhelming, frustrating and sometimes even impossible.
Imagine Your Cat Using The Toilet - Successful Cat Toilet Training Techniques
By: Birgit Hulsing | 17/05/2008
This may sound ridiculous or like a near-impossible feat, but you'll find life is a pleasant new world when you finish potty training your cat. You'll have a very low-maintenance cat and she will also make a great conversation starter. And, you even save money on cat litter when you...
Why People Prefer Chihuahuas Over Other Dogs?
By: Clarence Clark | 16/05/2008
As the smallest breed of dogs, Chihuahuas have been gaining increasing popularity. Spotted everywhere from the beaches of Miami to the bustling metropolis of London and New York, these dogs have also been adopted by the likes of celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Sandra Bullock and Hilary Duff.
Why the popularity...
A Quick Guide To Buying Teacup Chihuahuas
By: Clarence Clark | 16/05/2008
Teacup Chihuahuas are not an official breed of the immensely popular Chihuahua breed of dogs. In fact, major dog-related associations such as the American Kennel Club do not list "Teacup" as an official breed of the Chihuahua family. Rather, the term is derived from sellers who dub this particular species...
Taking Care Of Your Long Haired Chihuahua
By: Clarence Clark | 16/05/2008
Long-haired Chihuahuas are characterized by their by their smooth undercoat and long overcoat. The Long-haired Chihuahua is one of the two official versions of Chihuahuas recognized by the American Kennel Club. With its large eyes and erect ears, it is not difficult for people to mistake this version of the...
Tips On How To Give Your Chihuahua Pups The Proper Care
By: Clarence Clark | 16/05/2008
Small in stature, Chihuahuas are relatively fragile dogs. It is thus, important for owners of Chihuahuas to be equipped with proper knowledge and tips for caring for their Chihuahua pups. Care for Chihuahua pups covers many aspects and includes socialization, safety, nutrition and health. Responsible Chihuahua owners make a checklist...
Pet Immigration; You’d Like to Immigrate, But Will Your Pets Immigrate With You?
By: Lindsay Wagner | 16/05/2008
Passports for pets are becoming increasingly popular among immigrants. There's no question about it - your pets are family. Fortunately, there's no need to cast your pets aside. Your furry friends can immigrate with you.
So Many Horses - So Few Homes
By: Rosalie Kimberlin | 16/05/2008
How you can help the plight of so many unwanted horses.
More from Gary Kurz
Terror is When Imagination Becomes Reality
By: Gary Kurz | 16/07/2007 | Nature
This is a true story that has not been embelished in any way. The author has no explanation, but felt compelled to share it.
My Minister Said Animals Do not Have Souls
By: Gary Kurz | 16/07/2007 | Pets
When you lose a pet, you usually look to your minister for help and comfort. Too often they do not have the answers or they echo what they heard at seminary without really knowing.
Horror Unfolded Before Her Very Eyes
By: Gary Kurz | 24/05/2007 | Parenting
For parents who bring their children near boats or water, and for those who may think their children never are near either, this is a good true to life story on water and boat safety that could save your child's life.
Pet Predators Want your Pet
By: Gary Kurz | 18/05/2007 | Pets
As sad a topic as this is, pet people need to know that their pets are at risk. Discounting the urban legends of pets being kidnapped for testing purposes, there are real dangers that they are exposed to by people of baser character. Every pet owner needs to read this and become vigilant.
How to Survive your Son Growing Up
By: Gary Kurz | 18/05/2007 | Parenting
Historically, moms worry about the behavior of their sons. They seem to roam farther, dig up more trouble and generally cause hair to grow gray faster. Offered here is a true story of extreme misbehavior to help mothers view their own son's behavior in a little more favorable light.
The Most Important Thing to Know About Reptiles
By: Gary Kurz | 18/05/2007 | Pets
A mistake that is repeated over and over again by people wanting to keep reptiles or amphibians is people acquiring an animal that they have no idea how to care for. Impulse buying usually spells disaster for the animal and stress and regret for the owner. With just a little effort, problems and heartache can be avoided
You Won't See This One Coming
By: Gary Kurz | 15/05/2007 | Religion
Here is a different slant on the conservative vs. liberal issue. Too often we Christians think that politics and legislation is the way to reform. While much can be accomplished with good and moral laws on the books, it takes more to effect social change.
Win One for the Dogs
By: Gary Kurz | 15/05/2007 | Pets
An encouragement for all pet lovers to be vigilant to the plight of neighborhood animals. Some animals suffer terribly because their owners are negligent. Several methods for remedy without personal involvement are offered.
Home and Family 
