DOGS-CATS-PETS-OH MY!

One of the most common questions I get regarding disaster preparedness is: “What should I do to prepare my cat and/or dog for a disaster?” While much has been written regarding disaster preparedness, the data pool for pets and pet care is not as deep. Pets have always been special members of many of our families, but it has been the last decade or so that we have seen pet rescue get the attention that many have been seeking. Please keep in mind that while the rescues of pets are a high priority consideration, most first responders will not place pet rescue above human life.
To help streamline the information gathering process, I have made a 911/Pet Rescue Information sheet. Fill this out and place in your window near your door. (After you fill it in, fold the sheet in half to protect your personal information.) While placing this document in your window is not a guarantee, it will increase the chance of a rescue, providing that the first responding agency is able to safely search for your pets.
For additional pet rescue information, you can search the internet. Below are three web sites that I have looked up and found to be excellent resources.

United Animal Nations
http://www.uan.org/

The Humane Society of the United
http://www.hsus.org/

Noah’s Wish
http://www.noahswish.org/

Recently I had the pleasure of meet Thea Martin of Noah’s Wish at the L.A. County Fire CERT refresher held on May 2, 2009. The people from Noah’s Wish had many great ideas regarding preparedness and strategies for pet care during and post disaster.
To reach Noah’s Wish, click on the above web link and be sure and tell them you read about them from “JJ”.
If you would like me to send you a copy of the “911/Pet Rescue” document, just email me at: jaysonajohnson@gmail.com and place “911 pet rescue” in the subject line.