Disaster readiness

Are your pets disaster ready?

The 10th anniversary of the fires that devastated many parts of the ACT in January, 2003, reminds us that we should always be prepared for the unpredictable. Storms, fires and floods can come at any time and affect pets as well as people. Many pets were lost in the fires of 2003. Some were injured or died, others never found their owners and were re-homed or euthanased. 

Catch-me-if-you-can Cleo

Make sure that your cats are microchipped and that your contact details on the ACT register are up to date. If you have time attach a tag with your mobile number and address, and your vet’s phone number to your cats’ collars so that if someone without access to a microchip scanner picks them up you can be contacted. 
Have an emergency kit packed in advance. Include non-perishable food like dry cat kibble, water in spill proof containers, a cat carrier, litter tray and blankets as well as a first aid kit. 
The first aid kit should have gauze swabs, bandages, disinfectant, cotton wool, scissors and a towel to wrap your patient in. Even the most placid animal may react unpredictably when in pain.
Decide where your cats will go if you have to evacuate. You may have family or friends outside the danger zone who would look after them. 
If you leave your cats at home leave them in the safest enclosed room in the house, usually the bathroom, with food and water.  Leave a notice on the gate or door of the house with your contact details and saying that there are pets inside.