How to help your pets during a natural disaster

Aotearoa is a land of natural beauty and wonder, but behind the picturesque landscapes, there are also risks of natural disasters. New Zealand's unique landscape means we face various natural threats, from the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire's earthquakes to the heavy rains that can lead to sudden floods or tsunamis; the chaos of mother nature can strike at any time.

Being prepared is the key to our well-being in these situations, not just for ourselves but also our families and pets.

Fortunately, there is an abundance of resources available to help us prepare ourselves and our whole whānau for disasters. With valuable advice from PetSure, let's examine some steps we can take to ensure our pets' safety during these unpredictable events. The Ministry of Primary Industries also has a wealth of information and resources available to help with planning.

Creating a pet emergency plan for unexpected events

A comprehensive pet emergency plan can save precious time and reduce stress during chaotic situations.

Start by assembling a pet emergency box. This should include:

• Enough food and water for at least three days
• Medications and medical records in a waterproof container
• A leash, harness, or carrier for each pet
• Identification tags and up-to-date microchip information
• First aid supplies and any necessary pet-specific items 

Consider investing in pet insurance to cover potential veterinary costs from injuries during disasters. 

Make sure all family members are aware of the emergency plan and have access to important contact information, including local veterinarians, animal shelters, and friends or family who can assist with pet care during an emergency.

What to do with pets during a natural disaster?

When the threat of a natural disaster looms, the first thing to do is secure your pets in an easily accessible room. This ensures they won't wander off or hide, making evacuation faster and less stressful for everyone.

This step might seem simple, but it can make all the difference when time is of the essence. It’s important to have transport crates and leads on hand to ensure that your pets can be moved in case of emergency.

Leaving pets behind should only be the very last resort, although it can be a harrowing reality in severe circumstances. If this scenario occurs – even if you are only leaving them temporarily – ensure they are not tethered and they are sheltered from any potential dangers. Make sure they have access to water and food for several days and notify local authorities and animal shelters about their location so rescue and care can be arranged swiftly.

Keeping your pets safe in an emergency

Preparation is crucial when it comes to keeping your pets safe in any emergency, whether it’s a flood or an earthquake. Every household should have an emergency plan in place, which includes their pets.

It's not uncommon for pets and owners to be separated in emergencies, so key documentation and identification should be up-to-date and accessible:

• Ensure your pet is microchipped and the linked contact details are correct. If you have moved house or your contact details (phone number or email) has changed, remember to update the database.
• For dogs, keep your council registration current.
• Keep a record of your pet's medical history and vaccination records. This will be useful if you must evacuate and relocate, as some shelters may require this information.
• Ensure your pet is always wearing a collar with ID tags.

Transportation can be tricky if your pet isn’t used to travelling. Train your pet to feel comfortable inside a crate or carrier from when they are as young as possible, preferably at the puppy or kitten stage.

It’s also important to keep a pet-specific first-aid kit and consider taking a pet first-aid course in the event of a medical emergency, which could prove invaluable if veterinary care is inaccessible during a disaster.

Some additional emergency care and planning are species-specific. 

For dogs:

• Including a lifejacket and a canine backpack so they can self-carry vital items such as medication and food
• Ensure they have been trained to recall

For cats:

• Include cat litter in your emergency kit
• Have a designated carrier for each cat, each with ample room if they need to be contained for long periods

When returning home after an event, it's vital to keep your pet restrained or contained until you can assess any potential dangers, such as exposed wiring, sharp objects, or contaminated surfaces.

Essential actions to take for your furry companions

When emergencies arise, quick and decisive action is needed. Secure your pets immediately and gather them in one place so you can take them with you in an evacuation.

Ensure all necessary items are easily accessible in an emergency box.

It’s a good idea to create a pre-arranged list of safe havens for your pets in case evacuation is necessary. These could include friends' homes, pet-friendly accommodations, or local boarding facilities. Knowing your options ahead of time reduces the chaos during an emergency.

Ensuring their well-being in crisis scenarios

Disasters are the peak of stress for both humans and our furry companions. As we've said previously, preparedness is the key to keeping your pets safe during these scary scenarios.

During a crisis, your pets may feel disoriented, scared, or even aggressive due to the sudden change in their environment. It's important to remain calm and provide comfort to your pets. 

Natural disasters are unpredictable, but your response to them doesn't have to be. By preparing a detailed plan and taking proactive steps, you can ensure that both you and your pets are ready for whatever nature throws your way. Another way to prepare is by considering having insurance in place, which can help protect your pet. SPCA Pet Insurance offers three levels of cover to ensure your furry friend is well taken care of.

For further guidance, consult resources by the SPCA, MPI (Ministry of Primary Industries), or Animal Evac NZ. Don't wait for disaster to strike; prepare today.