Pup-paredness is a Family Effort

Pet preparedness is important to me because my dog Oakley came into my life during the Oak Fire in Mariposa. Unfortunately, the emergency conditions her owners found themselves in meant that they were unable to keep her safe during the wildfire evacuation. Because of her history, Oakley and I have taken several steps to be prepared. If we ever had to go through an emergency together, it is important to me to keep her safe. The first thing I did is build Oakley a pet emergency kit that goes with her anywhere she goes. It has items such as extra food, water, collapsible bowls, a leash, waterless doggy shampoo, towels, bags and of course, a bone! If I go out of town and she has to go stay with someone, the bag goes where she goes. It gives me peace of mind knowing that in an emergency, I can grab that bag and have everything I would need to take care of Oakley. Second, I include her in my evacuation drills. When I’m practicing my 2-Minute Home Fire Escape Plan, I make sure to include Oakley. We practice me calling her from the house and her meeting me at our meeting spot. If only I could train my cats to do the same! Third, I pay attention to where Oakley and the cats hide when they’re scared. During thunderstorms or fireworks, I pay attention to where Oakley and the cats go in the house to feel comfortable. It’s hard to think about, but I know that if there was a house fire, I would have to focus on getting myself out safely. Once I’m out safely at my meeting spot and...
Source: Red Cross Chat - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Authors: Tags: Disaster american red cross disaster preparedness emergency preparedness pet emergency kit pet preparedness pet safety Source Type: news