DISASTER PLANNING

        FOR PETS

In the wake of the unimaginable tragedy in New York City, the Manhattan-based ASPCA was busy finding, relocating and caring for dogs, cats and other companion animals affected by the disaster. It was a reminder that emergency preparedness should include planning for pets. Even a natural disaster, such as an earthquake, flood or wildfire, can put animals in jeopardy and separate pets from their families. Here are some tips to make your pet safer and give you some peace of mind.

Think about what you'll do with your pet if you have to evacuate your home. Most disaster relief shelters do not admit pets, so you'll need other options. Find out if any motels or hotels in the region accept guests with pets. Made a list of area veterinarians and kennels that might board your pet. Get together with friends or nearby relatives to make reciprocal arrangements for temporary pet housing if your home is unlivable.

Check with your local fire department about putting signs on your front and back doors, or in a window, to alert fire and rescue crews to the presence of a pet, in case you're not home when a disaster hits (Fire officials may recommend that you date the signs, and make certain to take them down if you move, so rescue personnel won't put themselves at risk to save a pet no longer in residence).

Make certain all your pets wear identification tags. Dogs and cats should wear collars with tags; birds can wear leg rings. Experts discourage leg rings on small animals, such as hamsters, mice or rabbits, but you should make sure their cages, pens or vivariums are secure.

Another way to identify your pet is with a tattoo or microchip. Many veterinarians, and some humane societies and animal welfare agencies, provide tatooing or microchipping services. Register your pet's number with a tattoo or microchip registration service.

Since your telephone may not work in the wake of a disaster, your pet's ID tag should include a friend or relative's phone number as well as your own. Keep a supply of write-on ID tags, in case you're evacuated. Make sure your pet is wearing a tag with its new address, however temporary.

Have several close-up photos and a record of your pet's size, weight and special markings. If your pet is lost, you can use this information to prepare posters and flyers. It will also help in identifying you as the owner if your pet is found.

Put together an emergency supply kit for your pet.

Include:

• A week's supply of food and water for each pet, stored in lightweight containers, like plastic bags and bottles. If your dog or cat eats canned food, don't forget a can opener. Bird seed spoils; replace it every six months. Water doesn't keep indefinitely either; it should be replaced every few months. Store one quart of water for each 10 pounds of body weight per pet, per day. Don't forget lightweight food bowls.
• Copies of your pet's up-to-date vaccination certificates.
• A fresh supply of any medications your pet needs, and copies of any prescriptions.
• Pet first aid supplies.
• Cat litter and a kitty pan.
• A leash and collar for each dog.
• A leash, harness and carrier for each cat.
• A blanket for extra warmth and paper towels for clean-ups.
• Some familiar toys.
• A list of emergency telephone numbersÑveterinarians, boarding kennels, shelters and humane societies.
• A supply of cash to pay for emergency boarding.