Dr. Kwane's Disaster Relief Tips
We asked Dr. Kwane to share his tips for pet parents who live in common disaster areas – and what to do if you’re caught off guard. “It all comes down to preparation,” Kwane says. “A lot of the information is common sense, but during a disaster, people often forget the simplest things. Being prepared in advance is so important.” Here are Kwane’s tips:
• Follow the advice of the authorities. If they are recommending evacuation, it’s important to take those directives seriously.
• If you live in a disaster prone area, keep a duffel bag packed with supplies just for your pets: food, toys, leashes, bowls, medication. Check on it every six months and replace the food or anything that needs to be switched out.
• If you don’t have a bag ready to go, the most important items to bring are pet food and a leash. Those need to go with your pet, and it's a bonus if you can take a blanket or a toy that's comforting to them, or any calming medication they may have.
• In the event you can't evacuate with your pet, it’s important that you don't cage or tether them if they're left at home. Place a sign on the front of your house or the window that alerts people that there are pets on the premises.