  DISASTERS & Pets: Have a PLANThe recent devastating tornadoes in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Tennessee caused a lot of destruction and suffering. Preparation and planning provide the best defense against natural disasters, and these plans should include our pets. Unfortunately in the heat of the moment our pets can be forgotten, and because their reactions to changes can be unpredictable is is best to be well prepared.
Owners need to think about what they need to have ready and easily accessible in case of an emergency. If at all possible plans should be made to take pets in case of evacuation.. Emergency shelters usually do not accept pets, so it will be necessary to make alternate arrangements for pets. It is wise to have a list of boarding facilities, vets, hotels (which accept pets), and shelters in a wide radius around your area, so you will have available contacts if you need to evacuate the pets. Your local animal shelter or vet may be able to provide guidance on planning for evacuation. Have a copy of medical records and, if applicable, vaccinations ready to go as well.
If you must stay in your home or cannot take your pets with you, have a plan in place to try to make sure the pets will be as safe as possible. Place cages away from walls or windows, in a secure room. In case of flood make sure cages are off the floor and that there are accessible high areas for non caged pets. Make sure plenty of food and water is accessible. It is much safer to take pets with you if you can.
Remember that pets may react unpredictably to changes and the chaos created by the emergency. They may become stressed and very easily startled. Care should be taken to keep pets safely confined as they may bolt if scared. If possible have some form of identification on your pets - some pets can wear collars or harnesses with identification tags, and if this is not possible for your pet consider microchip identification. Have a recent photo of your pet on hand, to increase the chances of quickly reuniting with a lost pet.
The following sites contain much more detailed planning issues. Although sometimes specific to cats and dogs, most of the recommendations can be applied or adapted to a variety of pets. As well, some of the sites have information specific to exotic pets. These pages are well worth a read, taking what applies to make a plan for your household. None of these will guarantee the safety of your pet, but being well prepared will give you the best chance of making it through an emergency with the whole family intact.
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