It happens, usually when you aren’t prepared, and have to scramble a disaster strikes and you need to react NOW! I’m not talking dinner burned in the oven kind of disaster. Usually it’s a natural disaster, we don’t get hurricanes in Western New York, but blizzards, ice storms, flooding in some areas and power outages are not uncommon. When these strike what do you do? Hunker down? Leave to stay with family or friends? What if you get a call that a friend or family member is ill and you are going to go stay with them for a while?

So many questions, now some answers. First this is a Pet Sitter Blog so you know where this is going I hope! The key is to have things organized and ready to go. There are websites that can help you and more about that later. If your pets are microchipped, insure the information is kept up to date, people forget after a move or acquiring a new cell phone number to make these changes. You will want to create a checklist of items you want to put together. Most should fit in a 20 gallon tote you can get at a local store, depending on how many pets you have of course.

The type of pets will vary your requirements some, that is why knowing your pets and what they are used to is helpful. Because you don’t know what you will or will not have access to or may be limited from your normal routine keep all possibilities in mind. If you are in a Red Cross Shelter, you may have to leave your pets someplace else. If you are with friends or family they may not have the supplies or house set up you do. You don’t know how long you may be in your car. Large animals of course require trailering.

Items you will need include in your tote:

• Crate/Carrier (for transport and possible temporary living quarters…probably won’t fit in the tote)

• Proper fitting collar/harness, leash & muzzle. Even the calmest of dogs can get stressed and reactive in tough situations. Be safe, not sorry.

• Extra ID Tags and Emergency Contact Information

• Up to date medical records.

• Bowls, spoon, can opener. Whatever you need for feeding.

• Food labeled with Use by Date (rotate out accordingly)

• Medications & Supplements with instructions with Use by Date (rotate out accordingly and/or as no longer needed)

• Clean Water

• Clean-up/doggy bags, disposable litter pan with litter and scoop.

• Paper Towels, plastic bags, disinfectant, wipes, soap, duct tape

• Toys, blankets, bedding (anything that smells like home or you).

• PET FIRST AID KIT

• Flashlight & Transistor Radio (don’t plan on WiFi)

• People Supplies Too!

Remember these supplies can come in handy when you are snowed in as well! Some resources for you to consider should you want more information on Disaster Preparedness and First Aid for Pets are:

www.PetPreparednessPlus.Com they offer webinars and www.SunnyDogInk.com has first aid kits as well as other information.

Thank you for reading! Looking forward to our next visit!

Amy Lynn Alexander

Amy Lynn’s Animal Care, LLC