Being prepared for a natural disaster is paramount for protecting you and your family, but what do you do for the family pet? The staff here at Walker & Frick Construction DKI in Richmond, Virginia, would like to address the safety and well being of your pet in the event of a disaster.
Create an Emergency Pet Kit
It is advised to put together an emergency kit for your family AND your pet before a disaster strikes and keep them in a place easily available. Your emergency pet kit should be packed in an easy to carry, canvas bag. The following list is important items to include in an emergency pet kit:
- Your pet's medical records and vaccination history
- His license information
- Current photograph of your pet
- An extra collar with ID and leash
- A checklist of medications and type of food your pet needs
- A carrier
- Food and water
- A list of addresses and phone numbers needed in case of an emergency like veterinary clinics and friends or family for potential refuge spots.
During a Disaster
Bring your pet indoors immediately. Monitor your pets behavior and note when his stress level rises. Speak to your pet in calming tones and having a favorite blanket or one of your old sweaters or a shirt that has your scent on it for him to lay on will do wonders in calming your pet.
Sheltering
If you are bringing your pet to a shelter remember to bring a collar with ID and rabies tags, a carrier or cage, ample food and water, medications, and Plenty of poop pickup bags. Keep in mind, pet shelters are filled on a first come first served basis so get your pet there ASAP.
After the Disaster
Things will not look the same as before. Once emergency crews tell you it is safe, walk your pet around the area until he can re-familiarized himself. If your pet is lost during a disaster, contact all the local animal shelters and veterinary clinics to locate your pet as soon after the disaster as possible.
Once you and your pet are safe, if your home needs restoration due to fire and water damage in Richmond, think about calling Walter & Frick Construction Co. Our specialists are always available to offer a solution. Please call 804-282-1281 to learn more about our services and how we can help.