Disaster preparedness for pets

In southern Colorado, wildland fires and other disasters are a very real threat. It is critical that you plan for unexpected emergencies with the well being of your pets in mind.

1. Identify your pet It is important for your pet to have a collar with your name and current contact information. Note that in the event of an evacuation, your home phone might not be accessible so include a back up number (cell or friend). In a chaotic situation, pets may get loose from their collars. Having your pets microchipped is a good way to ensure the best chance of your pet being reunited with you. However, since it might take some time before your pet is brought to a shelter to be scanned, tags are always a smart idea.

For larger animals (e.g. horses), write your phone number in a brightly colored grease pen on their sides. Have halters, with filled out luggage tags affixed to them, accessible. Consider adding a bright reflective leg band for additional marking. (Note: horses can be micro-chipped too!)

1. Window Clings This is imperative for fire fighters to know how many, and what kind, of pets you have in your home. Without a window cling, fire fighters will not know your pets are trapped inside. Include a current emergency contact number on the form. You can get window clings for free from the ASPCA .

2. Keep your pets near entrances If you are going to be away from home, it is best to keep your pets in area of the house where rescuers can easily access them.

1. Keep collars/leashes/pet carriers/halters and paperwork accessible

When every second counts, it is important to have leashes, collars, pet carriers and halters in a visible, easily accessible place for rescuers and for yourself. Collars/halters should already be fitted to size, and have information tags attached to them. Practice your escape routes before a disaster, not during one. Make sure your pets will ride in a car or horse trailer. Remember this saying, “one is none, two is one, three is better”. Make sure you have several escape routes planned since your main route might be compromised.

1. Take your pet!

If you must evacuate, take your pets with you. You might not be allowed back to retrieve them. Pets left behind are easily lost or killed. Remember, not all hotels will accept pets. Plan ahead and have a list of friends, family, boarding facilities or vet clinics where you can leave them if necessary, and a list of pet-friendly hotels. Evacuate early! Your stress level, the smell of smoke and the general chaos may make your pet scared and difficult to catch. So, don’t wait for the mandatory evacuation order.

1. Make a pet disaster kit

This kit should be pre-packaged and ready to go in the event of an emergency. Many places require proof of vaccinations (e.g. rabies, kennel cough and DHLPP, Coggins) in order to board them, so include copies of your pets vaccination history. Also bring your pets microchip information. Include several current photographs as these can help people find your pet if you become separated and also provide proof of ownership. Papers and photos are best stored in a water proof container. Add food, water, medications and supplies for at least five days, along with other supplies (e.g. food dishes, kitty litter). A first aid kit is also valuable. Consider including other handy items such as a pocket knife, pen, paper, flashlight, wet wipes, blanket, plastic bags etc.

1. Emergency contact In the event that you cannot reach your pet, it is a good idea to have a neighbor or friend who is familiar with your pets and their routines. Make sure this person has a key to your home. Have a pre-arranged meeting place (e.g. the fairgrounds) in the event that you cannot contact neighbors or family members.

2. After the disaster Do not let your pets roam when you return. The landscape may no longer be familiar to them and they could easily get lost. Keep pets leashed or contained while you check your home for new hazards. Your pet might be very stressed and need your patience after a disaster.