It's essential to include your pets in your emergency preparedness plans. Several agencies and nonprofits can help you.
Our state brings us stunning scenery and the joy of wide-open spaces, but it also gives us harsh weather and natural disasters. Earthquakes, winter storms, wildfires, and flooding are all things to think about. Most of us have plans in place for our own safety, but what about our beloved pets? Dogs, cats, or other animals live with us, and it's just as important to plan for their safety, too. In an emergency, pets depend on us.
Having a pet-friendly plan can make a big difference. If you have ever been through an emergency, you know how stressful it can be, and sometimes our furry friends can become frightened or lost during chaos. Taking the time now to get ready helps keep everyone safe and comfortable.
The first thing to consider is where your pet could go if you must leave your home during a disaster. Not all emergency shelters accept pets, and it is never safe to leave them behind. If you have to stay with friends or family, talk to them now and make sure they are comfortable having your pet, too. Animal shelters or boarding facilities in your area may also take in pets during emergencies. Call your local animal shelter, veterinarian, or even your city government to ask about their policies well before anything happens. Some resources also list pet-friendly hotels if you must leave your community.
It also helps to have pet supplies ready ahead of time. Just like you keep some food, water, and medications for yourself during emergencies, do the same for your pets. Store at least a few days' worth of food and water for each animal. If your pet takes medicine, talk to your vet about keeping an extra supply on hand. Include things like leashes, collars, a litter box for cats, waste bags, and their favorite toys or a blanket. These comfort items can help calm your pet if they are nervous.
Another important step is making sure your pets have identification. Collars with tags listing your phone number are a good start, but in Alaska's unpredictable conditions, tags can sometimes fall off. Many veterinarians offer microchipping, a painless procedure that puts permanent ID under your pet's skin. Microchips help shelters reunite you with your animal if you become separated. Ask your vet about this simple technology and make sure your contact information is always current.
During emergencies, pets often react to their owners' stress. Try to remain as calm as you can and be patient with your animal. Loud noises and sudden changes can make pets bolt, hide, or even snap at people. If you must leave your home, bring your pet indoors right away so you can catch them easily when the time to leave comes. If you use a carrier for your cat or smaller dog, practice using it ahead of time so your pet is comfortable.
Many organizations offer help with planning. The Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has information online about caring for animals during events like earthquakes or power outages.
Local animal shelters or veterinarians are ready to answer your questions. The American Red Cross and the American Humane Society websites also have easy-to-read guides on disaster preparedness for your pets that you can print out or save. Libraries or your local senior center may offer pamphlets or workshops on emergency readiness for you and your animals.
Taking these steps can give you peace of mind. Being prepared for disasters is a way to protect the animals that give us laughter, love, and companionship every day. By thinking ahead, you make sure that when the unexpected happens, you and your pets will be ready, safe, and together.
Christian M. Hartley is a 41-year Alaska resident with over 26 years of public safety and public service experience. He is the public safety director of the City of Houston and serves on many local and state workgroups, boards and commissions related to safety. He lives in Big Lake with his wife of 21 years and their three teenage sons.
