We can hardly believe that it has been just over a year since the unfortunate gas explosions and subsequent evacuations in Andover, North Andover and Lawrence. We will hopefully never have to experience something like that again. However, as we approach winter, there is always a threat of a winter storm or blizzard that may cause power outages or damage to homes. Regardless, we wanted to share some links that can help you and your family prepare for natural and man-made disasters. During a disaster or evacuation the unknown can be quite scary but putting these disaster kits together in advance will take some of the guesswork out of how to move forward.
The following links will help you put together an emergency kit for your pet that can be ready to go at a moments notice. Most of these items can be stored in a bag or plastic tote that you can simply grab on the go. You should also make sure to include any medication and up-to-date pet documents in the kit as well. Also, if your dog has a microchip, please make sure that the information is up-to-date.
Great tips from Ready.gov
Remember, during a disaster what’s good for you is good for your pet, so get them ready today.
If you leave your pets behind, they may be lost, injured – or worse. Never leave a pet chained outdoors. Plan options include:
- Create a buddy system in case you’re not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your animals.
- Identify shelters. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets.
- Find pet friendly hotels along your evacuation route and keep a list in your pet’s emergency kit.
- Locate boarding facilities or animal hospitals near your evacuation shelter.
- Consider an out-of-town friend or relative
- Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area where you may be seeking temporary shelter, in case your pet needs medical care. Add the contact information to your emergency kit.
- Have your pet microchipped and make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.
- Call your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get advice and information.
- If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Find out where pet boarding facilities are located.
- Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet’s medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.
- If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger!
Read more tips and other emergency preparedness items on the Ready.gov website
More important links
Emergency Kit Pamphlet
Humane Society of the United States
Red Rover.org
We hope that you will never have to use your disaster plan or kit but it is always best to be prepared!