AVMA helps veterinarians prepare pet owners in event of disaster

Preparedness tips to share with clients to help ensure human and animal safety during a weather crisis

Photo courtesy PRNewsfoto/American Veterinary Medical Association

With hurricane season in full swing, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has gathered resources that  veterinarians can share with pet owners to help them prepare for the impact of these potentially devastating storms.

The resources provided are made to help owners assemble a pet evacuation kit prior to an incident, deal with a lost pet, and figure out what to do after a disaster.

Pet evacuation kit

Assemble the kit well in advance of any emergency and store in an easy-to-carry, waterproof container close to an exit.

Food and medicine

  • Three to seven days’ worth of dry and canned (pop-top) food*
  • Two-week supply of medicine*
  • At least a seven-days supply of water
  • Feeding dish and water bowl
  • Liquid dish soap

*Rotate and replace these items to ensure they don’t expire.

First aid kit

  • Antidiarrheal liquid or tablets
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Bandage tape and scissors
  • Cotton bandage rolls
  • Flea and tick prevention (if needed in your area)
  • Isopropyl alcohol/alcohol prep pads
  • Latex gloves
  • Saline solution
  • Towel and washcloth
  • Tweezers 

Sanitation

  • Litter, litter pan, and scoop (a shirt box with a plastic bag works well for pan)
  • Newspaper, paper towels, and trash bags
  • Household chlorine beach or disinfectant 

Important documents

  • Identification papers, including proof of ownership
  • Medical records and medication instructions
  • Emergency contact list, including veterinarian and pharmacy
  • Photo of your pet (preferably with you)

Travel supplies

  • Crate or pet carrier labeled with your contact information
  • Extra collar/harness with ID tags and leash
  • Flashlight, extra batteries
  • Muzzle

Comfort items

  • Favorite toys and treats
  • Extra blanket or familiar bedding

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