If there is a disaster, how are you going to save your companion animals?  In recent years the media has been filled with disasters - terrorism, hurricanes, floods and mud slides, fires, tornadoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and even threats of biological and nuclear warfare.  My goal is to help you to not be consumed by fear during a disaster, but be confident that you have considered the worst and are prepared.  Advance planning is essential - it could save your companion animal's life and make yours easier during an emergency.

The most important thing to remember during an emergency is to bring your companion animals with you - do not leave them to fend for themselves; do not tie them up in the back yard or lock them in a stall.  Remember, they are counting on you for their support and survival!

Shut, but do not lock, doors and gates to your home (emergency crews or volunteers may need to enter).  Never believe that a friend, relative or employee will come to your premises and save your animals; emergency crews cannot and will not allow people who can't show a drivers' license with an address within the distressed area to enter - regardless of the reason.  (They can request that a certified disaster volunteer rescue the animals if they can be spared.) 

After the disaster, your home may not look or smell the same to your companion animals; confine them until you are sure they have adapted.  Check fences and pastures for damage, debris, downed power lines, wildlife or snakes that could injure your animals.

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