This past week was "Emergency Preparedness Week". Health and safety officials from across Canada are reminding us... If an emergency were to strike tomorrow, would you have what you need to take care of you and your family for 72 hours?
The article below posted by the City of Saint John New Brunswick advises us to remember our pets as we prepare.
If the worst happens and you’re asked to evacuate your home, will you have everything you need for all your family members?
This Emergency Preparedness Week, think about your furry and feathered family members. If it isn’t safe for you to be home, it’s not safe for your pet.
Arrange a safe haven for your pet. Ask your friends and family if they would be willing to care for your pet while you are away from home. If you are asked to evacuate to an emergency shelter, remember most shelters will not accept pets for health and safety reasons. Contact the Animal Rescue League to find out who will provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets, or to get a list of pet-friendly facilities (such as hotels) where you can stay with your pet.
Prepare an evacuation kit for your pet. You’ll need a first aid kit (ask your vet); 3-7 days worth of canned or dry food (rotate every two months); disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans work well); litter or paper toweling; liquid dish soap and disinfectant; garbage bags; feeding dishes; a harness (better for safety); copies of your pets medical records; bottled water; crate or carrier (one for each pet); blanket; and recent photos of your pets (in case of separation). Pack a few toys and any other necessities you might think you’ll need. And don’t forget - this pet kit should complement the kit for the human members of your family.
The Saint John SPCA Animal Rescue encourages pet owners to let emergency responders know there are pets in the home. Post a notice where responders will see it (in a front window, for instance) with the types and numbers of pets in your household, as well as the name and number of your veterinarian. The SPCA Animal Rescue has stickers available for purchase. If you evacuate, write EVACUATED on the notice so emergency responders know you’ve left your home.
