TODAY’S COLUMN: Plan now for your companion animal in case of disaster

Destruction caused by hurricanes, tornados, floods, mudslides and blizzards has wreaked havoc on the lives of humans and pets. It’s important to be prepared in a disaster, including having an emergency plan for your pets.

Prince William County’s Animal Control Bureau joins the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in recognizing May 14th as National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day. Learn more about the ways you can keep your pets safe in an emergency by visiting the FEMA website at http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/videos/75356 .

The Animal Control Bureau recommends that pet owners:

1. Have a Plan. Your plan needs to include how you will transport your animals in an evacuation, the possible routes you will take, and your destination/sheltering options. Practice that plan at least once a year, and share it with your family and friends.

2. Build a Kit. Don’t forget a photo of your pet(s), pet medical records, vaccination records, and any special food or prescriptions. 

3. Stay Informed. Keep an eye on the weather, follow a projected storm’s path and don’t get caught unprepared. Staying informed also means knowing which shelters house people and pets, monitoring possible road closures, and having alternate travel plans.

4. Know Your Neighbors. It’s best to form a relationship with your neighbors well in advance of a disaster. Develop a telephone tree and determine who is at home and at what times. If a disaster occurs while you are away from home, your neighbor may be the only one who can reach your pets.

5. Vaccinate and Microchip. If you’re ever required to shelter your pets, you’ll want them protected against disease. And microchipping your pets is their ticket back home after a disaster is over.

Prince William County Animal Control Bureau has two grant-funded disaster support trailers with equipment, and staff trained to set up pet-friendly shelters, that will co-locate with human shelters in the event of a disaster. This capability has been tested in full-scale exercises coordinated by the County’s Office of Emergency Management.

Remember, it’s your responsibility to protect your companion animals during a disaster. Have a plan, and prepare for emergencies!