BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Our corner of the country is known for being dog friendly. In fact, Whatcom County is home to approximately 50,000 canines, though we’re also likely to love cats. And as those with cats, dogs, gerbils or cockatiels would attest – pets are family.
Our corner of the country is also prone to a number of natural hazards. If a disaster occurs, we would no more leave behind our beloved pets than we would abandon our grandma. But before you head out the door with any of them, are you prepared?
It’s not as simple as grabbing grandma and your Pekingese before heading to high ground. In both cases, you need a Plan and a Go!Kit.
To get started on a plan for evacuating with your pet:
- Know where you’re going to go – and make sure it’s pet-friendly
- Have a buddy system – if you’re not home, will your neighbor help out?
- Microchip your pet and make sure vaccinations are up-to-date (and have that information with you)
- Carry a list of places to contact if you need to shelter your pet, such as an animal shelter or your veterinarian
Preparing an emergency kit for your pet is similar to what you’d build for your family:
- Food and water for several days (with a water bowl)
- Medicine and First Aid kit
- Back-up collar with ID tag and leash
- Traveling crate or container
- Sanitation items (kitty litter, trash bags)
- Photo of you and your pet(s) together
- Comfort items (toys, treats, special bedding)
The best part about investing in a plan and emergency kit? Peace of mind. While we can’t control the weather or other natural hazards, we can ensure we’re ready to shelter safely or evacuate with the essentials. Knowing that you (and grandma) and your furry friend will have what you need – when you need it – is well worth the time spent preparing.
Amy Cloud is the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. She was born and raised locally, leaving for Whitman College and work in Seattle, Knoxville and Washington, D.C. She returned to work as Supervising News Producer and reporter for KVOS-TV’s NewsView before switching to communications for WWU, PeaceHealth and the City of Bellingham. She also co-chairs the Community PIO Group and is a member of the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues.
