With the current wildfires in and around Alberta, preparing for an emergency is more important than ever. Wildfires are unpredictable and can spread quickly, so it's important to have an evacuation plan in place and to be prepared to leave at a moment's notice. This means packing a go-kit for yourself and your pets, securing your home, and following evacuation procedures. It's also important to stay informed about the situation and to follow the advice of emergency services. By being prepared, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe during this challenging time.
Natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, and earthquakes can strike at any time, and it's important to be prepared in case you need to evacuate your home. If you have pets at home, you need to include them in your evacuation plan as well. Evacuating with your dog during a natural disaster can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can keep your pet safe.
Prepare a Go-Kit for Your Dog.
Just as you would prepare an emergency kit for yourself, it's important to prepare one for your dog too. This kit should contain everything your dog will need in case of an emergency. Here are some things you should include in your dog's go-kit:
-
Food and Water: Pack enough food and water for at least three days, and don't forget to pack a bowl for your dog to eat and drink from.
-
Medications and Medical Records: If your dog is on any medication, make sure to pack it in the go-kit. Also, pack a copy of your dog's medical records, including vaccination records, in case you need to visit a veterinarian.
-
Leash, Collar, and ID Tag: Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag that has your contact information on it. Pack an extra leash and collar just in case.
-
Bedding and Toys: Pack your dog's bedding and some of their favorite toys to help keep them calm and comfortable during a stressful time.
-
Waste Bags: Bring some waste bags to clean up after your dog.
-
First Aid Kit: Pack a first aid kit for your dog, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any other items recommended by your veterinarian.
-
Recent Photos: Pack recent photos of your dog in case you get separated and need to show others what your dog looks like.
What to Do During an Evacuation
When you receive an evacuation order, it's important to act quickly. Here are some steps you should take when evacuating with your dog:
-
Put on Your Dog's Leash and Collar: Make sure your dog is wearing their leash and collar with their ID tag.
-
Bring Your Go-Kit: Grab your dog's go-kit, and make sure you have everything you need.
-
Secure Your Home: Close all doors and windows, and turn off all utilities if you have time.
-
Follow Evacuation Routes: Follow the designated evacuation routes to get to a safe location.
-
Find Shelter: If you need to find a shelter, make sure it's pet-friendly before you arrive. Many shelters don't allow pets, so it's important to plan ahead.
-
Keep Your Dog on a Leash: Keep your dog on a leash at all times, even if they're well-behaved. A new environment can be scary and stressful for your dog, so it's important to keep them close and under your control.
-
Keep Your Dog Comfortable: Make sure your dog has their bedding and toys to keep them calm and comfortable during the evacuation.
Conclusion
Evacuating with your dog during a natural disaster can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can keep your pet safe. Remember to pack a go-kit for your dog with everything they'll need, and make sure to follow evacuation procedures to keep yourself and your dog safe. With a little preparation, you can make sure you and your pets are ready for anything nature throws your way.