Emergency Preparedness for Assistance Dogs in Florida
Each year as hurricane season begins the media bombards us with reminders to have a family emergency plan devised that includes preparing an emergency evacuation kit. It’s strongly recommended that we stock up on non-perishable foods, bottled water, prescription medications, diapers, formula, batteries, and flashlights. Gas up the cars, take extra cash from the ATM, have propane tanks filled for the grills and maybe have a tarp or two on hand. All of these are considered necessary components of being able to provide for your family in the event of loss of power or relocating to the safety of a shelter. What folks tend to overlook is the necessary planning and emergency preparedness for assistance dogs in Florida.
So what items should be included in your emergency evacuation kit for your service dog? The experts agree that the following guidelines will allow you to compile a kit that should keep your assistance dog and/or family pets well-tended to for the duration of the storm and the aftermath:
- Current vaccination record.
- Current pictures if for any reason you become separated.
- ID tags/rabies tags.
- Your vets contact information.
- The contact information for an emergency vet in your area.
- The contact information for a vet in proximity of the shelter you may use.
- Dry or pop-top canned dog food; plan for at least one week.
- Bottled water for at least one week.
- Any medications your assistance dog takes daily and/or monthly.
- An extra collar, leashes, vests, and harness if applicable.
- Toys, chew toys, treats or any other equipment used during stressful situations.
- A blanket/bed.
- Water and food bowls.
- Waste disposal bags.
It’s a great idea to place the vaccination record, pictures and veterinarian contact information into a plastic bag to keep them dry. If you have dry food, protect it in a large trash bag or plastic container to keep it from potential water damage.
Living in Florida, or anywhere along the eastern seaboard, increases the possibility of being affected by tropical storms and hurricanes. Knowing in advance where your shelter is located and having verification that they will accommodate family pets (if you have them) in addition to your service dog will provide you with peace of mind and help keep everyone from panicking if a storm is approaching. Remember that Hurricane Season is from June 1st until November 30th and it’s never too late to make an emergency plan for you, your family, and your assistance dog in Florida. Plan now to weather the storm.
