If you’ve tuned into TV or social media this week, you’ve likely seen images of flooding in Quebec. For Saskatchewan residents, the pictures are all too familiar. From flooding to wildfires, the province has seen its fair share of disasters.

It’s also Emergency Preparedness week, and to coincide with the event, the Regina Humane Society has released a list of tips to help protect the four legged members of your family in case of a disaster.

1. Plan for evacuation relocation. The best way to protect your pet in an emergency is to bring it with you. Research where your pet can be taken in case of evacuation, including hotels, boarding facilities, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, family and friends.

2. Include your pet in your family emergency plan exercises.

3. Identify your pet. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, their identification may be the only way to find them. Make sure each animal is licensed, has a microchip and wears a collar and identification tag at all times which lists owner contact information as information for an alternate contact should owners be unreachable.

4. Keep your pet’s vaccinations current. Most kennels require proof of vaccinations to accept pets. It is a good idea to keep these papers in the emergency supply kit described below.

5. Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit.

Essential items include: All Pets

  • Food and water (7 day supply of fresh food & drinking water in airtight container)
  • Bowls (at least two/pet) & can opener
  • Blankets, toys & treats
  • Medical/vaccination records, medication & veterinarian contact information
  • Recent photos of you & your pet (include species, breed, age, sex, color on reverse)
  • Emergency contact information for pet owner & friends outside evacuation area
  • Copies of license, microchip & tattoo records
  • Cleaning supplies (paper towel, disinfectant, newspaper, plastic bags)
  • Pet first aid kit

Dogs

  • Strong leash and collar
  • Carrier or crate (large enough to comfortably house pet for several hours/days)
  • Poop bags

Cats

  • Litterbox - with extra litter and litter scoop
  • Collar, harness and leash
  • Carrier or crate (large enough to comfortably house pet for several hours/days)
  • Small Animals
  • Extra bedding
  • Carrier or crate (large enough to comfortably house pet for several hours/days)

Birds

  • Heater

Reptiles & Fish

  • Extra bedding or substrate
  • Extra lightbulbs
  • Extension cord/power bar
  • Water mister
  • Water conditioner
  • Filters

6. During an Emergency

  • Keep your pet inside. Animals can sense disturbances and may run and hide.
  • Separate pets for their safety and to reduce stress.
  • If you evacuate, take your pets, activate emergency plan and bring your supply kit.
  • If you must leave your pets in the home, do not tether or cage dogs/cats. Leave a sign on the door indicating what animals are inside. Provide water/food in timed dispensers. Leave toilet seats up.