Make a Plan for your Pets

September is National Preparedness Month, which is a great time to get your family and your family pet ready. This year, Oregon Emergency Management is focusing on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness from negative to positive.

Just because you plan ahead to be able to take care of yourself during a disaster doesn't mean you are thinking negatively. On the contrary, preparedness is a very positive step. For you pet's sake, preparing means getting an animal emergency supply kit and developing a pet-care buddy system.

Your pet kit should include the basics such as food, water, leash, collar, medicines, bedding, sanitary items, first aid kit, treats and toys. A good place to keep the kit is inside your pet carrier.

At www.ready.gov or by calling (800) BEREADY, pet owners can receive free emergency preparedness information. In addition, an instructional video is available at www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional.html that demonstrates how to make a plan for your pets.