Emergency Preparedness for Pets: Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know

By Dr. Blanchette
Medical Director at Island Animal Hospital

As pet owners, we cherish our furry companions and do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy. However, emergencies can happen when we least expect them, and being prepared is crucial for ensuring their wellbeing. Here are some ways to make sure you’re as prepared as possible for when an emergency strikes.

Know the Location of Emergency Veterinary Clinics:

One of the most important aspects of emergency preparedness for pets is knowing where to go in case of an emergency. At Island Animal Hospital, we are always available for emergency appointments during normal business hours, however, disaster may strike outside of normal business hours, so please familiarize yourself with the location of 24/7 emergency veterinary clinics in your area. Keep their contact information handy, including their phone number and address, so you can quickly access help when needed.

Create a Pet Emergency Kit:

Just like humans, pets need their own emergency kit stocked with essential supplies. Your pet emergency kit should include:

Food and water: Pack at least three days’ worth of pet food and bottled water for each pet.
Medications: Include any medications your pet may need, along with instructions for administering them.
First aid supplies: Include items such as gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for treating minor injuries.
Leashes, collars, and carriers: Have sturdy leashes, collars with ID tags, and carriers or crates for safely transporting your pets.
Comfort items: Include familiar items such as blankets, toys, and treats to help keep your pets calm during stressful situations.
Important documents: Keep copies of your pet’s medical records, vaccination history, and identification information in waterproof bags.

Make sure you check your emergency kit at least once every six months to ensure all food, medication, and first aid supplies are not expired.

Prepare for Emergency Situations:

Natural disasters, such as wildfires and earthquakes, or even house fires, can strike without warning, leaving you and your pets vulnerable. In these situations, it’s important to remember that your pet has a better natural, survival instinct than you do. Oftentimes, letting your pet loose to find their own safety is the best move. That’s why it’s absolutely crucial to have an ID collar and to microchip your pet so you can be reunited in that case. In this event, indoor only pets may end up outside and exposed to diseases that they will need to have antibodies against, this is why we recommend vaccinations for all pets, even those that aren’t supposed to travel outside. If you do stay together in an emergency, your pet emergency kit will be the key to keeping your pet safe and healthy.

Common Summer Pet Injuries:

Summer brings its own set of potential injuries for pets. Here are some tips for handling common summer-related emergencies:

Heatstroke: Know the signs of heatstroke in pets, such as excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool, shaded area, offer water to drink, and apply cool towels to their body. Seek immediate veterinary care.
Dehydration: Ensure your pets have access to fresh, clean water at all times, especially during hot weather. If you notice signs of dehydration, such as dry gums, lethargy, or sunken eyes, encourage your pet to drink water and seek veterinary attention if the issue persists.
Injuries from outdoor activities: Whether it’s a cut paw from running on rough terrain or a bee sting from exploring the garden, pets can easily injure themselves during summer activities. Keep a close eye on your pets when they’re outdoors and be prepared to provide first aid or seek veterinary care if necessary.

By taking proactive steps to create an emergency preparedness plan for your pets, you can help ensure their safety and well-being during unforeseen emergencies. Remember, being prepared can make all the difference in keeping your furry companions safe and healthy, no matter what challenges may arise.