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Pets And Natural Disasters: What Every Owner Needs To Know Before Travelling

  • 04/03/2020
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Did you know that natural disasters are estimated to affect up to 160 million people every year? Considering how many people travel with their animals, it is worth finding out what the best practice is for preparing your pets for a potential holiday disaster. Whether you are bringing your furry friends along with you or leaving them at home while you travel, here are some things to keep in mind.

1. Identification

Although owners of house pets might not see the need for a collar, it is critical to get your pet a personalised ID tag. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 requires dogs in public places to wear tags; however, even if your apartment-sized pup rarely leaves his home, he needs a tag. In the worst-case scenario, your building might not survive a natural disaster, which would leave your pet free to wander the streets. Including his or her name, your name, and contact details can help to ensure his survival and safe return to you, no matter where you are in the world.

Similarly, microchipping your pet will ensure that, even if the ID tag is damaged or lost, he will always have some form of identification on him.

2. How to find your pet

Animals are not able to understand natural disasters in the same way that humans do. We can watch the news and follow the recommended guidelines. A dog, however, may simply panic and run. If this happens, no matter how desperate you are, you should not run after your pet – especially if the disaster is underway. This might risk your life, and consequently your pet's life.

You must assume that your pet's natural survival instincts are taking over and let him go. Assuming he is microchipped and tagged, you can search for him when the disaster passes. Contact your local animal control office and scour various online forums such as Next Door or Reddit. As long as you are safe and healthy, you can find your pet.

3. Vaccinate your pet

Even if your pet does not escape in the chaos of a natural disaster, other pets might. When you take your pet out for his first walk, keep him on a lead and be aware of the risks that free animals might pose. In addition to ensuring that your pet is fully vaccinated, make sure that you have all the related paperwork. In the case of a pre-disaster evacuation, your pet might be denied entry to a shelter if there is a chance that he is not vaccinated.

On a related note, unless you are planning to breed your pet, make sure that he or she is neutered or spayed. A disaster shelter might involve a large number of animals, which could overwhelm your pet. Ultimately, you want your pet to stay out of trouble.

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