Pets in an Emergency
This publication is a compilation of materials available through a wide variety of organizations. It is meant only as a starting point. It does not provide definitive information on safety, housing and caring for animals in an emergency. Pet owners are encouraged to conduct further research on services available for animals should an emergency situation occur in Arlington.
Emergency Response for Animals
In an emergency - whether a house fire, a chemical spill necessitating evacuation, or any other situation where you and your pet can no longer remain in your home - it is important to understand that Red Cross shelters do not accept pets, other than service animals. Many hotels do not, and not all veterinarians offer boarding services.
Providing for your animal(s) is the responsibility of those of us who own and love our pets. Some of the questions to which we individually need answers are:
- Is my pet's identification information current?
- Have I made lodging arrangements for my pet - with family, friends, or have I identified commercial establishments that will house my pet?
- Supplies are an important consideration. Have I packed what my pet needs away from home?
- Medical considerations are essential. Are my pet's inoculations up to date? Do I have a record of important health considerations? Is it readily available?
- What if I can't get home because of an emergency. Have arrangements been made with a neighbor or friend to take care of my pet until I can return?
The United States has a long history of tragedy involving companion animals during emergency situations. Animals roaming communities not only encounter threats to their own well-being but also threaten public health and safety. Be part of the solution - not the problem.
Supplies for Pets
The following supply list is based on domestic cats or dogs. It must be tailored to your individual animal and his or her customary needs.
- Water and a container from which to drink. Travel bottles for dogs and cats are commercially available and inexpensive.
- Food. It is important to have a supply of food that your pet is accustomed to eating. A bowl.
- Collar and identification tag. Consider developing a tag with information that can locate you away from home.
- Extra leash and collar-useful for control and for muzzling if necessary since animals behave differently in an emergency.
- Regular medications (flea and tick; heartworm).
- Medical records, including a copy of the rabies certificate, (required by some commercial establishments)and prescription medications. A pet first aid kit and pet first aid book*.
- Proof of ownership - registration information, adoption records, proof of purchase, microchip information, a picture of you with your pet.
- Carriers or collapsible crates or Evacsak (for small animals only, available at 1-800-338-ACES).
- Sanitation supplies-plastic bags, detergent and paper towels for washing bowls, etc.
- Comfort foods - treats that your animal is accustomed to eating.
- Favorite toys.
* Consider taking the Red Cross Pet First Aid Course.
Medical Records
NAME:_____________________ BREED:_________________
AGE: __________ PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: _____________
____________________________________________________
INOCULATIONS OR TITRES:
Type Date Given Date Due
RABIES ___________ __________
__________________ ___________ __________
__________________ ___________ __________
__________________ ___________ __________
MEDICAL CONDITIONS (if any)
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS/CONTACTS
LOCAL VET: _____________________________________
EMERGENCY VET: _______________________________
FAMILY CONTACT:_______________________________
ARLINGTON ANIMAL SHELTER: 703-931-9241
NATIONAL ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER: 1-888-426-4435
MISSING PETS: www.missingpet
Consider Volunteering
Noah's Wish
Emergency Animal Rescue
Other Sources of Information:
Disaster Psychology for Animals
HSUS
United Animal Nations
This information is available in other formats for printing out and use as a pamphlet:
This page was last revised on: February 12, 2005.
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Arlington County Civic Federation
