Disaster Planning for your pet

We’re ready…are you? 

Natural disasters happen. Is your pet ready if one arises?

The current public health crisis is a good reminder that the most vulnerable members of our family need to be considered when making a safety plan. Whether its creating a safety plan in case something happens to you or having to a home quickly in an evacuation situation, your pet needs a plan.

The following tips can help you prepare and give you peace of mind.

Keep an evacuation/emergency pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry.

We recommend the following contents:

  • Pet first-aid kit (ask your vet what to include)

  • Seven days' worth of dog/cat food (make sure you have a can opener for wet food)

  • Bottled water, at least seven days’ worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months)

  • Pet feeding dishes

  • Extra collar or harness as well as an extra leash

  • Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect)

  • Litter, newspaper or paper toweling

  • Wet wipes, liquid dish soap, disinfectant

  • Disposable garbage bags for clean-up

  • Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit to remain fresh and effective.)

  • A crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet

  • Flashlight and batteries

  • Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)

  • Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make “Lost” posters)

  • If you pet is licensed through ACC, register it for free through Pethub

  • Toys and chew toys are helpful for confined pets

If faced with an evacuation order, take your pets!  You should also have a plan in place for a trusted friend or family member to provide temporary care, if needed.

wildfires are an annual threat to our neighbors

Every year, North Central Washington faces the real threat of wildfires. With low snow pack in the Cascades and very dry conditions, fire seasons continue to be rough.  Wenatchee Valley Animal Care & Control coordinates with local volunteers and organizations in order to provide emergency response and support for fire victims with pets.

If you have to evacuate, it is helpful to have several destinations in mind in the event that your first choice is also in danger.  There are several pet friendly local hotels that are good options to consider, as well.  WVHS offers free temporary shelter for pets with nowhere to go and are under Level 3 evacuation, based on availability. Should you need temporary boarding, REMOVE YOUR PET(S) AND FAMILY FROM DANGER, then call to check availability, even if that means calling en route, at 509-888-7283 (888-SAVE)

Fire evacuation levels are as follows:

Level 1 – Evacuation warning is an alert. Residents should be aware of the danger that exists, and monitor local media outlets for information. Residents with special needs, or those with pets or livestock, should take note and make preparations for relocating family members, pets, and livestock.

Level 2 – Evacuations indicate there is a significant risk to your area, and residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family/friends outside of the area, or, be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

Level 3 – Danger is currently affecting your area or is imminent, and you should leave immediately.

As always, in an emergency, dial 911.  For a pet emergency, call Wenatchee Valley Animal Care & Control at 509-888-7283 (888-SAVE)