An earthquake can be a terrifying experience for both humans and pets. If you’re a pet parent, it’s important to take some steps to ensure your furry friend is as safe as possible during an earthquake. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prepare your pet for an earthquake, including what items you should include in their disaster kit and how to train them to stay calm during an emergency.
Make sure your pet is microchipped in case they get lost during the quake. Be sure to gather your pet’s paperwork ahead of time in a clear plastic bag. You should include the following documents:
Remember to refresh your emergency bag every 6 months with new paperwork that is reflective of their current medications and medical history.
Have a sturdy carrier or crate for them to hide in. The carrier should be big enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Place a towel or blanket inside the carrier to help your pet feel more secure.
Create a disaster kit for your pet that includes food, water, and medical supplies that will last you at least one to two weeks. We recommend including the following items:
Replace any food or water in the pet emergency kit every six months. Pro tip: Write down the date you prepared the food and water for the kit so you know when to replace them.
Train your pet to stay calm during an earthquake – some dogs may bark or become agitated, while others may try to hide. Cats are also more likely to hide. It’s important to get your cat or dog familiar with the crate or carrier you will be using in case of an emergency so they don’t associate it with punishment. You can do this by feeding them meals in their crate and placing treats and toys inside of it.
If you have to evacuate, make sure you take your pet with you. Leave a sign on your door indicating that you have evacuated and include the number of pets in your household. If your pets are elsewhere, be sure to include the details of your pet’s whereabouts on the note.
Identify a safe place in your home, away from falling objects before an earthquake strikes. If possible, keep them away from windows and other objects that could fall on them during an earthquake.
Be sure that you’ve downloaded the Airvet app before a disaster strikes. If your pet is injured during a natural disaster such as an earthquake – Airvet will be there for you – ready to assist in any situation.
A little preparation goes a long way. You can help ensure your pet’s safety in the event of an earthquake by anticipating what you would do in a natural disaster. Have a plan in place and practice it with your family – including pets – so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
