Hurricane Katrina, 2005

Joplin Tornado, 2011

Midwest Floods, 2011

Moore, OK Tornado 2013

Hurricane Sandy, 2012

If you have to evacuate, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND!

Are you and your pets prepared for a potential disaster?  Plan ahead and keep the "WHOLE" family safe in the event of an emergency or disaster. 

• Develop an Evacuation Plan:  Create a plan for your family and pets.  PRACTICE this plan – don’t wait until you have to evacuate.  Determine in advance several locations where you may go with your pet – i.e. with family or friends, pet-friendly hotels/motels, etc.

• Create a “buddy system” with a trusted friend or neighbor to evacuate your pets in case you are not home.  This person should be familiar with your pets, be able to enter your home if pets are inside, know your evacuation plan and where you keep you pet emergency kit.  It also is important to let them know where you pets may hide.

• Sheltering-In-Place:  Designate a “safe” room – an interior room that has no windows or doors leading to the outside.  Make sure you keep your pets under your supervision at all times.  Have your pet emergency kit in this room.  Have a supply of food and water for you and your pet for a minimum of 7-10 days. 
  

• Pet Identification: Collars and updated ID and rabies license tags are necessary, but may not be enough.  We recommend micro-chipping your pet.  Another alternative is tattooing.  Talk to your veterinarian about ID options.

• Photos of You & Pet:  VERY IMPORTANT!  Have photos of you and your pet together.  Photos may help for reunification if you and your pet become separated.   Place a copy of the photo(s) in your pet emergency kit.   Note that many animals can look similar to each other due to breed type and colors, so photograph any unique markings that may help with identification purposes. 

• Assembling Pet Emergency Kits:  Click here for See "Emergency Kits For Household Pets"

• Vaccinations:  It is imperative that your pet is updated on vaccinations.  If they need to be placed in an emergency animal shelter, they may be housed with animals that have not been vaccinated. 

• Pet Carrier/Crate:  Each of your pets should have an appropriately sized carrier.  Attach contact and pet information on the carrier.  Consider purchasing a pet carrier that is FAA approved in case you have to transport your pet on an airplane. 

• First-Aid Kit & Reference Book:  Have a small first-aid kit available.  Common injuries are to the pads of feet, tails, and ears.  First-Aid supplies include:  sterile gauze pads, bandage tape, “Vet Wrap”, bandage scissors, sterile eye rinse, rubber gloves (for yourself).  Visit the websites listed below for more information.

The CCADT offers a free workshop on "Disaster Preparedness For Pets" throughout the year. Click on the "Events" page for updated information on courses being offered.