Did you know June is National Pet Preparedness Month! And living in California: where the ground shakes, and the hills burst into flames—it's the perfect time to get serious (but not too serious) about making sure you and your furry friend are ready to skedaddle at a moment's notice. So, here are my top tips to make sure you're not caught off guard.
#1 Pet Safety Stickers: Slap a sticker on your window to let first responders know there are pets inside. If you’re stuck at work while disaster strikes, you’ll want the heroes to save Fluffy and Fido. You can score a free sticker from the ASPCA at https://secure.aspca.org/take-action/order-your-pet-safety-pack. It’s like a “Save the Cheerleader, Save the World” situation, but with pets.
#2 Trusty Neighbor or Pet Sitter: Give a spare key to someone you trust and your pets know. This way, if you’re stuck in traffic or having an existential crisis far from home, your pets can still be rescued. It’s like having a backup plan for your backup plan.
#3 Safety Kit for Your Pet: When you’re putting together your emergency kit, don’t forget the doggo or kitty. Keep everything in a waterproof container because, you know, disasters don’t care about your organizational skills. Here’s what to include:
Extra pet food (and swap it out every two months unless your pet is on an intermittent fasting kick).
Portable water and food bowls (because pets aren’t great at drinking from cupped hands).
Extra leashes, collars, or harnesses (because losing a leash is like losing a sock—it just happens).
Water bottles (again, swap them out every two months).
A copy of your pet’s veterinary records (in case they need to prove their age for pet discounts).
Portable pet carrier for smaller pets (or a miniature chariot, whatever suits your style).
Blankets (because who doesn’t love a cozy blanket?).
Disposable garbage bags (for cleaning up after your pet, or for impromptu fashion shows).
Disposable litter trays (for cats who refuse to go au naturel).
#4 Pet First Aid Kit: Adding a pet first aid kit to your emergency stash is a smart move. Include:
hydrogen peroxide (for those curious noses that get into trouble),
gauze,
non-stick bandages
cotton balls
Benadryl gel caps (for allergic reactions)
antibiotic ointment spray (for minor wounds)
milk of magnesia (for toxic ingestion)
tweezers, scissors
a soft muzzle (because even the sweetest pet can panic)
a small towel (perfect for wrapping, drying, or making your pet look like a superhero).
#5 Update Microchips and ID Collars: Make sure your pet’s microchip info and ID collar are up to date. If you get separated, you’ll have a better chance of being reunited. Also, keep recent pictures of your pets handy, because, believe it or not, “I’m missing a black-and-white cat” describes about half the cats out there.
So there you have it! These tips should help you and your pet be ready for anything Mother Nature throws your way. Let’s hope you never have to use them, but it’s always better to be prepared. And remember, in the face of disaster, keep calm, stay safe, and don’t forget the treats.