It’s Pet Safety Preparedness Month and the American Red Cross reminds pet owners that their furry friends are totally dependent on them for their safety during an emergency situation. Your disaster plans must include your pets and we have steps you can take to help keep your beloved pets safe.
As we head into hurricane season and the time of year for wildfires and other disasters, remember, if it’s not safe for you to be in your home, it’s not safe for your pets either. Make an evacuation plan that includes you, your loved ones and your pets. Many hotels and shelters do not accept animals, so plan ahead as to where you would take your pet. And, when you pack your disaster kit, assemble one for your pet too. Details about what to include are available here.
CREATE AN EMERGENCY PLAN FOR YOUR PET
Include your pets in your disaster plan. Here are five things to consider:
DOWNLOAD THE APP Pet owners can download the Red Cross Pet First Aid app for veterinary advice for everyday pet emergencies at their fingertips. The free app features videos, quizzes and step-by-step advice on pet first aid and includes emergency preparedness information. Red Cross apps can be found in smartphone app stores by searching for American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
TAKE THE COURSE People can access the Red Cross Cat and Dog First Aid online course on their desktop or tablet. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete the course. The interactive course includes:
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.