April is a great month for dogs and cats alike. Warmer weather means longer walks for dogs and lazy days by the sunlit windows for cats. But that life of leisure and serenity can be turned upside-down in an emergency.
“Our pets are members of our family. When faced with an emergency or disaster, the last thing a pet owner wants to do is leave a pet behind,” says Chief Tom Sampson of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency. “That’s why we recommend having a plan for your pet as well as your family.”
Here are some steps you can take to ensure the safety of your furry friends during an emergency or disaster:
- Make sure your pet is identifiable. If you become separated during an emergency, this will make it easier for you to find them.
- Prepare a pet emergency kit with a sturdy crate or carrier, a leash, 72-hours’ worth of food and water and special medication if needed.
- Make a list of pet friendly hotels or relatives you can stay with as emergency shelters don’t normally accept pets.
- Visit Animal Services to get a door or window sticker that informs emergency services that there is a pet in the home.
Taking these steps now, will save a lot of time and stress during an emergency disaster.
To learn more visit calgary.ca/getready or come and join us at Disaster Alley on May 4 at McMahon Stadium.
