Environmental emergencies and disasters affect all areas of the country and world. Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires are the most common ones among others such as chemical and water breeches.

Every household should have a plan of action in case of an emergency for both you and your pets. The American Kennel Club offers tips on keeping your pet safe during a natural disaster.

Have an evacuation plan. Having a plan in place will help reduce stress and worry when you need to make a decision during an emergency. It is important to know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters happen. Be sure to do research on what shelters and hotels allow pets. If taking them to a shelter or hotel is not an option, be sure to plan an alternative place to house your pet such as a friend or family member’s place. Never leave your pets behind when evacuating.

Get a rescue alert sticker. Keep a sticker on your home’s windows and doors to tell emergency workers or neighbors that there are pets inside. Make sure it is visible by placing it on or near your front door. Be sure to include the types and number of pets in your home as well as the name and number of your veterinarian. The ASPCA offers free emergency pet alert stickers for your home. Your local pet store may also sell similar stickers. If you do evacuate with your pets, and if you have time, write “EVACUATED” across the stickers.

Microchip your pet. Pets can become disoriented and wander in a crisis. It is important that you have a way to locate them if this happens. Be sure to keep your address and phone number up to date and include contact information for an emergency contact in your immediate area. Your dog should also wear a collar and ID tags with your contact information. If your dog has major health issues that require medication, this information should be included on their tag as well.

Make a supply kit for your pup. Think about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Make sure to have at least three days’ worth of food, water and medicine in your kit. Take a photo of your pet’s prescriptions if necessary. It is also a good idea to have two kits, one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version for if you need to evacuate. Keep your kits up to date to ensure that their contents, especially food and medicines, are fresh. Some items you may want to have in your kit include an image of you and your dog, food, a crate and leashes, water, medicine, first aid, sanitation needs, and a familiar item such as their favorite toy.

Evacuation Training Skills. Training your dog to be comfortable around people outside of their immediate family can be a life saving skill when in an emergency. Practicing this skill will help your dog be less stressed in the event that a stranger needs to care for them. Crate training and teaching your dog to settle are also important tools for your pup to know in case of an emergency. They will help prepare your dog for stressful situations and know how to relax at your feet while your attention is elsewhere.

Contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get additional information if you’re unsure how to care for your pet in case of an emergency.

For more tips on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org.

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