Keep Pets Ready A Reminder During National Disaster Preparedness Month

Published on September 16, 2022

By Carol Weemes, Animal Services

A checklist is provided below for pet owners to help be better prepared in case of a disaster where people may be displaced from their homes with their pet(s):

• License and register your Arlington dog and/or cat with the Animal Services Center each year
• Microchip your pet, and keep contact information current
• Have your pet wear a collar with its current identification tag and rabies vaccination tag
• Prepare a "go-kit" for your animal that includes:

• A leash o A pet carrier suitable for the size and comfort of your pet (cats also need space for a small litter box)
• A week's supply of fresh water
• A week's supply of pet food
• Food and water dishes
• Any prescribed medications, prescriptions, and medical records
• Contact information for the animal's veterinarian, pet friendly hotels, Arlington Animal Services Lost and Found Pets website family and friends, etc.
• A blanket o A duplicate of a favorite toy
• And, don't forget to include baggies to properly dispose of pet defecation in a sanitary, lawful manner.

Watch the video Saving the Whole Family: Disaster Prep and Your Pets with Dr. Heather Case, an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) member, and visit avma.org/disaster for more information.

During hurricane season, it is especially important to be ready to relocate to safety with emergency resources for family and pets. Flooding, rainfall, and tornadoes resulting from hurricanes and seasonal storms can arrive on short notice.

Refresh food, water, medications, and any other perishable items in the go kit periodically to ensure you will be ready if disaster strikes. Be safe and be ready with a plan in place.