purrsandhisses.com

With all of the natural disasters, flooding, tornadoes, and earthquakes, happening more now than ever we must be prepared. Do you have an emergency plan for you and your family? What about for your pets? The first thing that comes to my mind (I don't have children yet) is what will happen to my furkids? How do I prepare to keep them safe?

 
The first step is to visit the ASPCA's website and request your FREE Pet Safety Pack. It includes a pet rescue window decal that alerts rescue personnel that pets are inside your home. The safety pack also includes an ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center magnet. It has the ASPCA'S toll-free number and website so you can call in case your pet gets into something they shouldn't.

Second, set up a first-aid kit for your pets. You can find them online ranging from 9.99 on up. If you prefer, make your own. The following is a list of items you should consider putting in your kit.

• Sterile gauze pads (3" x 3" and 2" X 2") and gauze bandage rolls (1" and 2")
• First-aid adhesive tape, 1" roll
• Cotton swabs (Q-tips®)
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Plastic freezer/sandwich bags
• Small bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide
• Styptic pencil or cornstarch (stems blood flow from minor cuts)
• Antibacterial ointment
• Antiseptic cleansing wipes
• Kaopectate® or Pepto-Bismol®
• A current pet first-aid book
• Eyewash
• Eyedropper
• Mineral oil (a lubricant and laxative when given by mouth)
• Digital or rectal thermometer in a plastic case
• Leather work gloves (to protect you from being bitten)
• Latex gloves
• Leash
• Thin rope
• Splint materials (tongue depressor, 12-inch wooden ruler or thick magazine)
• Pet first aid or animal health book

Third, Read about pet first-aid and take a class if you can find one in your area. Check local vets and your local Red Cross.

Lastly, Familiarize yourself with pet emergency clinics - in your area and to places you travel to.

I hope you don't ever have to use your kits for yourself or your pets.

*purrs*