As I watched the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, I thought "We don't have earthquakes here." Then I remembered Hurricane Katrina news about how many people would not leave their homes without their pets. I realized I could never leave Hobbes, our Wheaten Terrier, or any animal during a disaster. Then I rationalized, "This would never happen to us."

 

What could happen to us? Minnesota doesn't have hurricanes and we don't live on ocean-front real estate. Minnesota does have:

• Floods - We don't live by a river.
• Tornadoes - Many years ago one damaged houses six blocks from our house.
• Natural gas leaks - Last year a mile away, a house blew up. No one was home and the dog was found with burned paws. Fortunately the dog was taken to the closest veterinarian, who was his vet and called the family to say he was safe. 

I know the chance of disaster happening to us is very small.  I didn't have a plan and wasn't sure what was needed. 

 

Do you have plans for your cat, dog, small animals like guinea pigs and hamsters, snakes and reptiles, or horse? Do you have a bag packed with their vaccine record, food, contact information, or proof they are part of your family?

 

The American Veterinary Medical Association's website contains information on disaster preparedness. The AVMA has a very complete plan called "Saving the Whole Family©" waiting for you to download. It covers:

• Small animals, equine, livestock, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals
• Preparing a disaster plan
• In case you are not at home
• Identification of small animals, equine, and livestock
• Transportation/housing
• Evacuation kit by animal type

I printed my copy and started gathering the information and materials. I probably will not do everything. Even if you only read "Saving the Whole Family," you are more prepared. I hope none of us ever have to use our disaster plans!

 

Please see the Animal Bridges Blog for an update on Patch, the previously whining dog. Now you can follow Animal Bridges on Facebook - hope you "like" it. To catch up on old newsletters, check out the Animal Bridges' Archive. Remember you can always call me for a free 10 minute consult.

 

Enjoy spring and take care,

Elaine