Pet Shelter

Pet Shelter

Disaster Preparedness For Your Pet: Part 1

Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, fires, blizzards – nature has its fury days from time to time, not to mention the man-made threat of international terrorism. No-one is exempt from the possibility of being personally affected by such a disaster. You cannot prevent one but you can prepare for one.

1) Pre-emptive Planning

Vaccinations: make sure your pet is up to date with his/her vaccinations. Your veterinarian usually informs you when the annual booster is due, but this is not guaranteed to happen. Rabies vaccination is essential in addition to the standard multi-vaccine.

Identification: make sure your pet can be identified in the event that you are separated. A microchip or tattoo are important forms of identification but this should optimally be combined with a collar tag of some sort, as not all rescue personnel will be equipped with microchip scanners or quick access to tattoo/microchip databases. Likewise if a member of the public comes across an animal with a collar tag on they are more inclined to attempt to trace its owner. The collar tag should ideally contain a rabies tag, your home address, a phone number where you can be reached, and an out-of-state number of someone that you will be in contact with during or soon after the disaster/evacuation.

Recent photo: it is a good idea to have a recent photograph of your pet(s) in a safe place so that if the worst did happen and you were separated, you have the materials to hand to immediately make posters etc. Make a note of any distinguishing marks or features on your pet so you can provide a more accurate description.

Food: have at least a 2 weeks supply of pet food (and water) stored at all times. Store dry food in watertight containers, and if you store canned food do not forget to store a can opener nearby! A few treats should also be stored if possible to provide them with some comfort.

Medications: always keep a back-up supply of your pets medications. Your veterinarian will be closed for business during a disaster so your pet has a serious medical condition, you may not be able to obtain those crucial tablets for a few weeks.

Transportability: make sure you possess a secure pet carrier for small dogs, cats, rabbits and small mammals. Use the carrier at home before disaster strikes, so your animal is used to it. Larger dogs must have a secure leash or harness. In a panic, your pet may try to escape so secure transport is essential. If your dog rides with you in your car, keep a leash in the car so your dog can be safely controlled if you have to leave your vehicle.

Identifying a pet shelter: for public health and safety reasons, most emergency shelters do not accept pets. In case disaster strikes a small area that just happens to include your home, make sure you have numbers handy of hotels and motels in your area that accept pets. In the event of a wider area being affected, or a mass evacuation, you will need to contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office. Remember, pet shelters may only accept your pets if you can provide proof of vaccination so keep your vaccination card somewhere safe.

Start a buddy system with a friendly neighbour: arrange to check on each others pets in the event of you not being home when disaster strikes. You will need to provide them with a key to your home. Brief your buddy on any medications necessary, discuss mutual evacuation plans and agree to care for one anothers pets in your/their absence. Inform your veterinarian of this arrangement and have your buddys number put in your file at the vets just in case.

Pet survival kit: consider packing a pet survival kit to have available if disaster strikes. The kit should be assembled in an easy to carry, waterproof container and stored in a cool, dry area. Food and medications will need to be replaced from time to time in accordance with their use-by dates. Some medications may need to be refrigerated. It is wise to keep an emergency first aid guide together with your survival kit, such as our downloadable Pet Doctor Online Pet Emergency Guide.

Suggested components of Pet Survival Kit:

2 week supply of food (dry and canned)
Can opener
Spoon
2 week supply of water in sealed plastic bottles
Food & water bowls
Secure pet carrier for each pet, labelled with your contact information
Copy of medical history, including vaccination record
List of emergency contact telephone numbers
Disaster preparedness guide
Emergency First Aid guide (see above)
Emergency First Aid kit (see below)
Flashlight
Radio
Batteries (radio, flashlight)
Medications
Instructions (notification of allergies, medications, veterinarian details)
Muzzle
Comfort items (toys, blankets, treats)
Spare collar, leash, harness
Cat litter, tray, pooper scooper
Paper towels
Trash bags for waste disposal
Maps of local area
Recent photo of each pet

Pet First Aid Kit: Your local vet clinic may well be closed due to the disaster. In fact, if the whole region is affected you might not have access to any veterinary care for a while as relief teams will prioritise human casualties. This is when having your own pet first aid kit can keep you one step ahead.

Suggested components of Pet First Aid Kit:

Oral rehydration powder (for reconstitution with water)
Antidiarrheal tablets/liquid
Activated charcoal (in case of poisoning)
Medications specific to your pet
Routine preventative medications (e.g. heartworm, fleas, ticks)
Antiseptic scrub (Betadine, Nolvasan, Hibiscrub)
Saline solution (for rinsing wounds)
Sterile eye rinse
Antibiotic eye ointment
Antibiotic ointment for wounds
Hydrogen peroxide
Styptic powder (clotting agent)
Alcohol wipes/prep pads
Gauze pads and rolls
Latex gloves
Ice cream sticks (can be used to splint fractured bones)
Elastic bandage rolls
Cotton bandage rolls
Cotton wool
Non-adherent bandage pads
Bandaging tape
Scissors
Tweezers
Syringes
Thermometer
Towel and washcloth
Tourniquet

About the Author

Dr Matthew Homfray is one of the experts at
www.WhyDoesMyPet.com - Expert Answers for all your Pet Questions

Visit them today, you will be impressed by the quality of their pet experts and the speed with which your question is answered!

Shelter $8.99 Shelter

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Ringer T by CafePress $22.25 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Ringer T The Ringer T has made a fashion comeback, and ours is a popular favorite. This classic style is sure to impress even the most discerning t-shirt connoisseur with an eye for retro-coolness. Great for relaxing in comfort year-round.5.5 oz. 100% pres

Doskocil Extra Large Pet Shelter Dog Door 29998 $39.07 Fits pet shelter (08608929). Durable and flexible. Keeps the warmth in. Keeps the rain out

Adopt a Shelter Pet Funny Oval Sticker by CafePress $5 Save a Life - Adopt a Shelter Pet Shirts amp; Gifts Funny Oval Sticker Our stickers are printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks 150; meaning no fading in the sun or bleeding in the rain. Measures 3 x 5 oval. Printed on durable 4mil vinyl.

Portable Pet Cooling and Shelter System $169 Unique cooling shelter shields your dog from heat and the elements, just about anywhere—beach, poolside, picnics and parks, or even indoors. It's lightweight, durable, and features a pop-up canopy and integrated padded pillow for ultimate home-away-from-home comfort. Comes in its own carry bag with handle and shoulder strap. Core polymer system uses nontoxic cooling inserts that recharge in water, with no batteries required, and is tested and proven to maintain a cool surface for up to 8 hours. Machine wash. Sizes: S (20" x 28"; for dogs up to 55 lbs.), L (24" x 36"; 55-125 lbs.).

NinDS - Dora & Kai-lans Pet Shelter $55.59 NDS DORA & KAI LANS PET SHELTE

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Bumper Sticker by CafePress $5 Goblin says, Adopt a shelter pet Show your support and help homeless animals find their forever homes. Pets Bumper Sticker Tell the world how you feel Our bumper stickers are perfect for expressing yourself while cruising down the highway or just for posting on the wall. Measures 10 x 3. Printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks -

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Cupsthermosreviewcomplete Teddy Bear by CafePress $18 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Cupsthermosreviewcomplete Teddy Bear Our plush bear is a cutie in his own message-bearing t-shirt and festive red and blue ribbons. Here's a great gift for Valentine's Day, baby showers, birthdays, get well-wishes, a pair of wedding bears, or any reason you dream up. Put a smile on someone's

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Pets Hoodie dark by CafePress $45 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Pets Hoodie dark Stay warm on the inside. Look oh-so-cool on the outside. Don this comfortable fleece sweatshirt for that dress-down BBQ -- or your next dress-to-impress trip to the mall.10 oz. fleece blend 90% cotton/10% polyester. Fleece-lined hoo

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Pets Tote Bag by CafePress $21 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Pets Tote Bag Our 100% cotton canvas tote bags have plenty of room to carry everything you need when you are on the go. They include a bottom gusset and extra long handles for easy carrying. 10 oz heavyweight natural canvas fabric. Full side and bot

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Cupsthermosreviewcomplete Women's Tracksuit by CafePress $43 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Cupsthermosreviewcomplete Women's Tracksuit Our Womenrsquo;s Raglan Tracksuit is sporty, stylish and ultra-soft, so it feels great against the skin. The zip up hoodie is side-seamed for a shapely fit. The color coordinated sweatpants are destined to be your favorite pair, with a straight leg fit,

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Cupsthermosreviewcomplete Jr. Hoodie by CafePress $37 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Cupsthermosreviewcomplete Jr. Hoodie A fashion must that defines today39;s hip style, our Jr. Hoodie is a body-loving curve-hugger. From American Apparel, get into baby soft 100% super fine-combed cotton fleece. Front zipper, hood and pockets to keep the chill off. Pre-washed 7.2

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Pets Baseball Jersey by CafePress $35.5 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Pets Baseball Jersey Our 100% cotton Baseball Jersey is a sporty hit with both men and women whether you're in the game or just looking the part in great run-around casual-wear. Choose red, blue or black sleeves. 6.1 oz. 100% heavyweight cotton. Standard f

A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter Pets Apron dark by CafePress $24.5 A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter is a private, quot;no-killquot;, non-profit organization that seeks to place animals into permanent, caring homes and advance the humane treatment of animals through education Pets Apron dark Spice up conversations in the kitchen or around the BBQ with this tasty-looking apron made of high-quality cotton twill, it's rugged and wears great too. Ideal for cooking, baking, grilling or bartending, it's perfect for foodies of all sizes. Simply sl

Adopt a Shelter Pet Funny Magnet by CafePress $4 Save a Life - Adopt a Shelter Pet Shirts amp; Gifts Funny Magnet Stick 'em up with our fun and functional magnets. Holds refrigerator notes, photos, dress up a school locker, room or workspace. Adds stylish fun to any room. Collect 'em, trade 'em. 2.25 inch diameter. Metal shell. Flat magnet

Shelter Survivor Pet ID Tag Large $11.99 Dog Tag Art™ Shelter Survivor Pet ID Tag The Dog Tag Art™ Shelter Survivor Pet ID Tag is an endearing way to let your pet show that every life is worth saving. Dog Tag Art™ Pet Tags are designed and illustrated from artists from all over the world and are printed with affection and care in the mountains on North Carolina. Guaranteed to be ultra-durable and always be legible, these uniquely designed and stylish Pet ID Tags are a must have for any pet. Features: Made in the USA Made from recycled steel core Coated with a special coating that fuses colorful graphics permanently to the pet tag Comes with a sturdy metal split key ring for attaching to the collar Easy to read Designed by artists all over the world Manufacturer guaranteed never to wear out Item Specifications: Large Tag Dimensions: 1 1/4" (3.18 cm) Small Tag Dimensions: 7/8" (2.2 cm) Customization: Dog Tag Art™ Pet Tags come with a separate ID tag that allows for up to 4 lines of custom text in italic or non-italic font. Line 1 (Name): Up to 15 characters Line 2 (Phone): Up to 15 characters Line 3: Up to 15 characters Line 4: Up to 15 characters Font Options: Arial Comic Sans MS Courier New Georgia Tahoma Trebuche MS Verdana Font Style: Italic Non-Italic

Shelter Survivor Pet ID Tag Small $11.99 Dog Tag Art™ Shelter Survivor Pet ID Tag The Dog Tag Art™ Shelter Survivor Pet ID Tag is an endearing way to let your pet show that every life is worth saving. Dog Tag Art™ Pet Tags are designed and illustrated from artists from all over the world and are printed with affection and care in the mountains on North Carolina. Guaranteed to be ultra-durable and always be legible, these uniquely designed and stylish Pet ID Tags are a must have for any pet. Features: Made in the USA Made from recycled steel core Coated with a special coating that fuses colorful graphics permanently to the pet tag Comes with a sturdy metal split key ring for attaching to the collar Easy to read Designed by artists all over the world Manufacturer guaranteed never to wear out Item Specifications: Large Tag Dimensions: 1 1/4" (3.18 cm) Small Tag Dimensions: 7/8" (2.2 cm) Customization: Dog Tag Art™ Pet Tags come with a separate ID tag that allows for up to 4 lines of custom text in italic or non-italic font. Line 1 (Name): Up to 15 characters Line 2 (Phone): Up to 15 characters Line 3: Up to 15 characters Line 4: Up to 15 characters Font Options: Arial Comic Sans MS Courier New Georgia Tahoma Trebuche MS Verdana Font Style: Italic Non-Italic

Adopt a shelter pet Pets Women's T-Shirt by CafePress $22 Don't buy while animals die... adopt a shelter pet Make your next companion a shelter animal and save a life. Pets Women's T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Our 100% cotton Women's tee is preshrunk, durable and guaranteed. 5.6 oz. 100% cotton. Standard fit.

Dora & Kai-lan's Pet Shelter - Nintendo DS $29.99 SynopsisThey're the cutest animals you've ever seen. Playful puppies, perky-eared kittens, fluffy bunnies and colorful birds but they've all been left alone with no place to call home. Thanks to the kind hearts of your friends Dora and Kai-lan, these lonely little critters have a new chance for fun and happiness at their friendly Pet Shelter. These brave Nickelodeon girls have faced lots of challenges, but this time, with hungry kitties and dirt-covered puppies needing their attention, they could really use some help. Get ready for some paw-some fun and purr-fect adventure you're just the pet lover to help save the day. Here at Dora & Kai-lan's Pet Shelter, it's up to you to check up, suds up and cheer up a litter of homeless pets and get them ready to meet their new owners. Use your animal expertise to perform vet check-ups on all of your furry patients to make sure that each one is as healthy as a horse. These poor pets haven't had much attention, and they could really use some TLC. Make their coats and feathers sparkle by grooming and bathing them, then take the pets outside for fun backyard games that have tantalizing prizes like treats and toys. When it's time to introduce your furry friends to their new owners, dress them up in an outfit to celebrate the occasion, and use your best judgment to match each pet's personality to the perfect person. There's no place like home. With help from you, Dora and Kai-lan, lots of little pets will have a new chance to find theirs.

Adopt a Shelter Pet - Amstaff Pets Bumper Sticker by CafePress $5 Cute, custom Adopt a Shelter Pet car sticker shows a photo of Torrie, an American Staffordshire Terrier shelter dog while promoting shelter animal adoption. Pets Bumper Sticker Tell the world how you feel Our bumper stickers are perfect for expressing yourself while cruising down the highway or just for posting on the wall. Measures 10 x 3. Printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks -

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets License Plate Frame by CafePress $18 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets License Plate Frame . A real roadside attraction, get your driver's attitude or cause across on this cool License Plate Frame. Constructed of sturdy, durable, shiny chrome that makes your message POP. Images are applied with a permanent adhesive weatherproof decal. UV and w

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Car Magnet 10 x 3 by CafePress $5 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Car Magnet 10 x 3 Share what's on your mind with a personalized magnetic bumper sticker for your auto. Choose from thousands of custom bumper sticker magnets or larger sizes for the car door of your vehicle. Get one today to express your passion or promote a cause or bus

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Aluminum License Plate by CafePress $19.5 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Aluminum License Plate This front license plate lets you express your driving attitude or cause. Made of sturdy amp; durable aluminum, it is water-resistant. This custom plate is the perfect complement for drivers with novelty plates on the back. Measures 12 x 6.

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Organic Kids T-Shirt by CafePress $24 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Organic Kids T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt For boys girls growing up in a green world, this naturally-grown organic T-Shirt is a great statement. Plus it feels great to wear and stands up to the rigorous demands of earth-friendly kids at play.100% organic cotton jersey. 4.3 oz. 10

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Women's Light T-Shirt by CafePress $22 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Women's Light T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Our 100% cotton women's tee is preshrunk, durable and guaranteed.5.6 oz. 100% cotton. Standard fit.

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Organic Women's Fitted T-Shirt by CafePress $30.5 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Organic Women's Fitted T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Finally a women's organic t-shirt that's earth friendly and fashion conscious. This form flattering fitted tee has a soft and smooth silhouette that keeps you stylish and reduces your carbon footprint. Size up for a looser fit.100% organic cotton

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Women's Dark T-Shirt by CafePress $26 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Women's Dark T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt The women's Dark T-shirt is comfortable, casual, and classy. The shirt is simple, flattering and will quickly become a favorite. The pre-shrunk 100% cotton is soft and durable.5.6 oz 100% cotton. Standard Fit.

Adopt a Shelter Pet Sticker Oval Pets Oval Sticker by CafePress $5 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Oval Sticker Our stickers are printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks 150; meaning no fading in the sun or bleeding in the rain. Measures 3 x 5 oval. Printed on durable 4mil vinyl.

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets Stainless Water Bottle 1.0L by CafePress $18 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets Stainless Water Bottle 1.0L Approved by lunch ladies and Mother Nature, our 1.0L Stainless Sports Bottle is perfect for green thinkers on the go 40;or on campus41;. Eco-friendly and compact, it's sure to quench your thirst for style and refreshment. Made of 18/8, food

Adopt a Shelter Pet Pets iPhone 4 Slider Case by CafePress $25 Adopt a Shelter Pet item with paw print promotes shelter pet adoption. Raise awareness for saving homeless dogs or cats with a unique gift for animal advocates, lovers, adopters/owners of rescued pets Pets iPhone 4 Slider Case This two-piece hard case protects your iPhone 4 or iPhone 4s and adds a lot of flare. The case does not obscure controls, but is easy to slide on and off - for quick docking. The felt-lined interior prevents scratches and the exterior soft-grip prevents