Prepare.org: Tips for People with Service Animals or Pets

I.D.s and Licenses

Make sure your service animals and pets have I.D. tags with both your home telephone number and that of a your primary out-of-town contact person. Make sure your animal's license is current.

Animal Care Plan

Plan how your pets will be cared for if you have to evacuate. Pets, in contrast to service animals, may not be allowed in emergency shelters due to health regulations, so have some animal shelters identified. Contact your local Red Cross chapter or state office of emergency management for guidance.

Establish relationships with other animal owners in your neighborhood so in case you are not home, someone will be able to help your animal.

Alternate Mobility Cues

Pets and service animals may become confused, panicked, frightened or disoriented during and after a disaster. Keep them confined or securely leashed or harnessed. A leash (or harness) is an important item for managing a nervous or upset animal. Be prepared to use alternative ways to negotiate your environment.

Emergency Kit for Service Animals

Assemble a kit for your service animal that will last seven days. Place it in a pack that your animal can carry (if it is large enough to do so) in case you need to evacuate.

The kit should include:

• A bowl for water and food.
• A seven-day supply of food.
• A blanket for bedding.
• Plastic bags and paper towels for disposing of feces.
• Neosporin ointment for minor wounds. (Animals can easily get cut after an earthquake; ask your veterinarian if there is anything specific you should include for your animal).
• A favorite toy.
• An extra harness.

Checklist

• ________ Make sure I.D. tags and license are current.
• ________ Create a care plan for your animal.
• ________ Be prepared to function without assistance from your service animal. Practice emergency drills using alternate mobility cues.
• ________ Assemble an emergency kit for your service animal.

Developed by Independent Living Resource Center San Francisco in cooperation with June Kailes, Disability Consultant, through a grant from The American Red Cross Northern California Disaster Preparedness Network.

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