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When Disaster Strikes

None of us want to believe that we will live through a disaster so great that it will destroy our homes and displace our lives.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency there were 52 natural disasters in 2006. This does not include non-natural disasters, such as fires in the home. Disasters can happen to any one of us at any time.

Because most disasters are unplanned you won’t have much time to get organized when one occurs. The most common mistake people make during a disaster is not planning ahead for pet evacuation and “not evacuating” when the order first comes out.

Here are some steps to help you plan ahead for the safety of your pets, so you can leave quickly and easily in the event of a disaster:

1. Create a disaster preparedness kit with everything your cat needs to survive in case you are with out assistance for up to 72 hours. These kits are available for purchase in stores and on-line or you can make your own. Make sure your kit includes at least three days worth of food in an air tight container. If possible have your cat’s favorite treat in case you need to coax them out of hiding places. Water- Include a three day supply of water for each cat. Medications- A Supply of your cat’s medications for at least three days is very important. First Aid Kit- Your cat’s first aid kit should include bandages and medical tape, antibiotic ointment, scissors, alcohol, and a pet firs aid reference book.

2. Research Hotels and shelters near you that will accept pets during a disaster situation. Remember Red Cross Disaster Shelters do not allow animals for health and safety reasons. You may also want to consider evacuating to a friend or relative’s house as well.

3. Establish Ownership- Take a picture of you with your cat. This will help in case you get separated during the disaster.

4. Find an emergency contact in your area that will look after your cat if you are away or at work when the disaster occurs. Make sure the person knows the location of your preparedness kit.

5. Make sure all cats have collars with ID tags and that the information is current. Animals often get separated during a disaster and proper identification may help reunite you with your pet. Micro chipping is also advised, since collars may get lost.

6. Most importantly, take your cats with you. Not only does separation from their owners create anxiety in animals already under stress, but also their chance of survival decreases when left to fend for themselves. You are your cat’s best hope for safely making it through a disaster.