KNOW THE FACTS!

Get Ready!

Get your pet ready before it’s too late. Follow these steps to get your pet disaster ready:

  1. Build a Kit – Gather supplies for your pet and store them in a portable container that is easy to manage, like a plastic bin or duffle bag.
  2. Make a Plan –Designate a local emergency contact who can care for your pet if you can’t take them with you, or identify a safe place for them to stay locally like a shelter or clinic. Identify an out-of-town contact who can house your pet temporarily.
  3. Stay Informed – If a disaster occurs, be prepared to set your emergency plan in motion.

 

No pets allowed!

Due to health and safety concerns, most shelters do not allow pets unless they are certified service animals. Have a plan for what to do if you can’t take your pet with you.

  • Designate a neighbor or out-of-town family member who is willing to look after your pet temporarily.
  • Call your vet to see if they can recommend a boarding facility or shelter that would temporarily house your pet.
  • Have your Pet Emergency Kit packed and ready so it is easy to grab during an emergency.

 

Your pet kit should have:

  • 3 – 7 days worth of pet food
  • Supply of water (1 gallon, per pet, per day for at least 3 days)
  • Feeding dishes
  • Treats
  • Blanket or pet bed
  • Old towel
  • Toy, chewy bone, or comfort item
  • Muzzle – even the nicest pet can bite in response to fear or anxiety
  • A traveling bag, crate, or sturdy carrier for each pet
  • Disinfectant spray
  • Disposable gloves
  • Disposable bags for clean-up
  • Disposable litter trays and kitty litter scoop (aluminum roasting pans work, too)
  • Leash, spare collar or harness, and extra ID tags with current information (your pet should wear a collar with rabies and identification tags at all times)
  • Reflective dog tag, vest, or battery-operated clip-on flashing light in case you are in the dark

 

Your pet first aid kit should have:

  • Gauze pads
  • Bandages – self-clinging Vet Wrap sticks to itself, not to fur
  • Adhesive first aid tape
  • Tweezers
  • Towel
  • Disposable gloves
  • Flashlight or penlight
  • Sterile saline solution
  • Blunt tipped scissors
  • Styptic powder or pencil
  • Antiseptic spray
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Antihistamine – check with your veterinarian for correct dosage
  • A supply of any medicine your pet requires

 

Important phone numbers:

  • Pet friendly hotels or motels
  • Veterinarian
  • After-hours emergency veterinarian
  • ASCPA Poison Control Center 1-888-426-4435

 

Don’t forget important pet documents:

  • Microchip information
  • A photo of yourself with your pet for proof of ownership
  • Phone number to regular vet and emergency vet
  • Vaccination records
  • Copy of pet license

 

Questions

For more information, please contact our Emergency Preparedness Division at (513) 946-7800.

 

Download a printable version of this fact sheet here.

 

250 William Howard Taft Road
2nd Floor, Cincinnati, OH 45219
Phone 513.946.7800 Fax 513.946.7890
hamiltoncountyhealth.org