Earthquake preparedness tips – for your pets: How to keep them safe

Are you and your pet prepared for earthquakes or other emergency evacuations? If you aren’t prepared, your animal companions aren’t prepared.

We’ve got an earthquake preparedness checklist – follow these tips to keep you and your pets safe before, during, and after an earthquake:

Create a disaster plan for your family, pets included
Make sure pets are properly identified (collar, tags, microchip), and keep all contact information current.
Keep vaccine records, tag and microchip contact info, I.D. numbers, and vet info handy. Keep a copy in your smartphone, but also consider a hard copy in your house and car.
Make sure you have a recent picture of you and your pet. This is important if you get separated from your animals and need proof of “ownership.”
An up-close and clear picture of your pet, especially any distinctive markings
Be familiar with hiding places. Some pets, especially cats, will hide when they’re frightened. Take note of where they have hidden in the past.
If your pet becomes lost or stays in a shelter with other animals, he may be exposed to infectious diseases. Consider consulting a veterinarian after your pet comes home.
Check animal shelters. If your pet becomes lost, make the local animal shelter your first place to look.
Experiencing an earthquake can be frightening, but if you are prepared ahead of time, you’ll have the tools to help navigate your family and pets safely through this unpredictable experience.

Earthquake preparedness tips – for your pets