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Pet Preparedness

Harris County Texas Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Pet Preparedness

Whether you’re preparing for a storm, a hurricane, or even a terrorist attack, don’t forget to make a kit and plan for your pet as well! Your pet’s kit should include enough food, water, and medication to last 7-10 days. When storing each of these items, remember to seal them in watertight containers to prevent any damage.

The kit should also include a carrier, collar and a leash. Adding an ID tag onto your pet’s leash that includes your phone number will allow for easier identification if you are separated from your pet. In the event that you are separated from your pet, have a picture of your pet at hand for additional identification. Your pet’s immunization and health records should also be put in a waterproof container and into your kit.

Following a hurricane, animals may be very disoriented. It is important to keep your pet as calm and secure as possible during this time. Pack anything that may give your pet additional comfort. You can prepare for a potential evacuation in advance.

Find out what you may choose for your pet, such as: pet friendly hotels, boarding kennels, relatives, or friends. Making plans in advance will help secure your pet’s safety. If you do plan to shelter your pet, find a shelter that is safe and away from flood zones. If you have a service dog, shelters will ask you for documentation that is a service animal, so make sure you include that information in your kit.