Emergencies of any kind are scary and stressful situations. In those moments it is hard to think clearly. A person’s focus is usually on what to grab on the way out the door, on saving their lives and the lives of their family members, and of course, on the pets! Emergency preparedness is nothing new, but including your pet in that might be. Here are a few things every pet owner should know before there’s an emergency.
The GO Bag
A “go” bag is simply a bag with copies of important information and items that you want to have with you in case of an emergency. This includes everything from passports to water and non-perishable food items. Don’t forget to include your pets’ needs too: they’ll also need food, any necessary medications, and an extra leash at least. If you can, have extra copies of their ID tags made as well. You can even have your pet ID tags made at J&M Aquatics and Pet Center in Grand Junction.
Travel Options
Be sure your pets’ crates or travel supplies are easily accessible. If you’re rushing to grab things to avoid a flood or wildfire, you don’t want to have to hunt under the bed for your cat’s crate. Also, Identify pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities outside your immediate area. If you know you’ll head to a metro area like Denver or Salt Lake City, get a list together of favorite hotels that allow pets or of campgrounds, etc., where you can stay with your pets. ‘
Pet First Aid Kit
For a detailed list of items to keep in your pet first aid kit, click here. In addition to your pet’s medications, be sure to include gauze, clean towels, self-adhering bandages and non-stick tape, calming chews, and a special toy or something that will remind your pet of home. Also, save the pet poison control hotline number in your phone and keep it written in your first aid kit too: 888-426-4435.
Have questions about what every pet owner should know before there’s an emergency? Come and see us at 2851 1/2 North Avenue in Grand Junction! Our pet professionals can help you put together a great first-aid kit, just in case you ever need it.