May 11 is National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day, which is the perfect time to remind pet owners of the importance of including their companion animals in their plans. Veterinarians urge pet owners to make provisions for their pets like the following just as they would for any other member of the family.

How to Include Pets in Disaster Planning

1. Reserve at Least a Week's Worth of Food & Water

The regular cycle of feeding and watering your pet should continue even after a major disaster to keep them healthy and help maintain a calming sense of routine. Set aside emergency supplies of all their pet food. Also, keep several jugs of water on hand for pet use. Aim to reserve at least a week's worth of food and water, but if you can store even more, do so.

2. Assemble an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit should contain all of the necessities your pet will need in the event of an evacuation or injury. Include a carrier, first-aid kit, leashes, harnesses, food and water, feeding bowls, and extra medication. Make copies of your pet's medical records and vaccination certificates to store with the emergency kit. Also, print out several pictures of each pet and keep these with their medical information; if your pet gets lost, you can start circulating their pictures right away.

3. Prepare for Evacuation

Some natural disasters make it unsafe to remain at home, in which case you’ll need to pack up your pet to evacuate. However, you should prepare for this eventuality in advance since not all evacuation sites will be equipped for pets. Contact local veterinarians and shelters to get the names of hotels and boarding facilities that will accept pets in an emergency. Compile a list of family members, friends, and coworkers who would be willing to take your pets if the need arises. Also, get your pet used to being in a carrier.

For all your emergency pet care needs, trust the veterinarians at Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital. Since 1972, they’ve provided pet health services to the Waipahu area. They are open seven days a week and offer emergency vet care 24 hours a day. From preventative treatments to ongoing medical support, they are here for you and your pet. Call (808) 671-7387 or visit their website to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian today.