Emergency plans for dog owners

Emergency Contingencies for your dogs Considering all the terrible events surrounding the hurricane Katrina it brings to mind the importance of having emergency plans for your dog(s). The information below is intended to help you "cover all the bases" 1.Firstly, prepare an emergency notification card for your vehicle. On the card (which you can put in the glove compartment and carry in your bags or even stick on your vehicle interior, after it has been LAMINATED) you should have the following information: call name(s) of your dog(s) name of your vet and addressed and phone number your personal wishes should your pet be beyond help name and phone number of contact persons your own name, address, and phone dog's registered name if applicable dog's registration number if applicable dog's ID chip or tattoo if applicable dog's status ( in reference to service dogs, etc.) copy of vet records (immunizations and booster shots and rabies tags) 2. Put a buckle collar with identification on the dog. Carry along a flexi-leash or long leash for exercise and a short leash for controlled walking. 3.Prepare a safe place within the vehicle. (crate, seat belt, etc.) Crates should be secured within the vehicle. NEVER plan on carrying your dog loose in the back of a pickup, use a crate and make sure the crate is bolted and secured and is COVERED for shade if it is a wire crate. A tie-up for the dog in the back of the pickup is NOT suitable. If possible carry a fold-up exercise pen for setting up at rest areas or on a trip. 4. Prepare an emergency food and water kit. You should carry at least 5 gallons of water for large breeds and three gallons of water for small breeds. You should have a four day supply of food. The water should be kept fresh in the vehicle (re-fresh every two weeks) The food should be kept closed in an air tight container. Feeding dishes should be kept in the vehicle along with a water dish. Along with the food/water supplies make sure you have adequate numbers of leashes and also weather items such as coats or covers for the smaller dogs who are sensitive to cold. 5.Prepare a first aid kit for your dog. Include: vet wraps, one roll, ascriptin (coated aspirin), benadryl (for bee stings or bites or allergies), antibiotic ointment, scissors (for cutting out mats, etc.) grooming equipment such as a comb or a brush, two small towels or washcloths, an ice pack , a thermometer (normal temp is 102 degrees, taken rectally) a muzzle (if a dog is in extreme pain it may bite without warning) for large dogs, a sling tweezers As is always the case, for yourself and your pets, it is important to remember to keep an emergency situation as stress free as possible. For this reason alone, take your dogs on frequent trips so that he will be used to travel. (it is also an excellent idea to feed your dog in different places in your home or outside on a regular basis) That way, should the need arise, he will not suffer as much stress as he otherwise might in an emergency situation. Good luck and be safe!