Pet Disaster Preparedness Tips from Apple Valley Veterinarians in Southington
Pet owners are responsible for the safety and well-being of their pets during a disaster. If you know a flood, tornado or hurricane is due to hit your location, find out which pet shelters plan to remain open and where veterinary care is available in case your pet needs medical assistance. In addition to preparing a pet disaster plan in advance, your Drs. Freiman and Rothstein in Southington also recommend bringing your pet to our animal clinic for an annual pet wellness exam to ensure your pets do not find themselves in need of medications for an unexpected health problem during an emergency.
Start Your Pet Disaster Plan Today
Disasters happen with little to no warning. To help avoid you and your pet become separated during a disaster:
- Attach an ID tag with your contact information securely to your pet’s collar
- Consider microchipping your pet at our Southington veterinary clinic
- Have pet carriers readily accessible with contact information visible on each carrier
- If you do not have a car, contact your local pet shelter to find out if transportation is available before or during a disaster
- Decide in advance if you and your pet are going to shelter in place or in a local shelter. This decision should be based on the expected severity of the disaster
Microchipping is the best way to prevent your pet from being lost and unidentified. Plantsville veterinarians, Dr. Eric Rothstein and Dr. Herbert Freiman, can microchip your pet at our animal clinic.
Pet Disaster Kit Checklist
In addition to creating your personal disaster supply kit, make sure it is kept up to date with fresh food and medical items such as:
- Enough dry food to last 14 days (per pet). Dry food should be put in airtight containers or baggies
- Hand-operated can opener to open wet food cans
- Pet bowls kept dry and clean in plastic bags
- Plastic bags for disposal of pet poop
- Two week supply of pet medications/prescription for additional supplies of medications
- Medical records showing vaccination schedule
- Extra harnesses/leashes
- Cages or carriers big enough to allow your pet to stand and move comfortably
- Blankets, towels, and toys
Medical supplies to treat minor injuries affecting pets during a disaster include flex bandages, gauze, Neosporin and hydrogen peroxide or another non-alcohol disinfectant. Depending on the age and health of your pet, you may want to add thermal/cooling packs to relieve joint pain due to arthritis or other joint disorder.
Call Your Veterinarian in Southington Today!
Schedule a pet wellness exam today with us by calling Apple Valley Veterinarians at (860) 628-9635. Our veterinarians can also give you further advice about preparing your pet for an unexpected disaster and where to receive veterinary care during and after a disaster.