What To Do About Your Animal During a Disaster

During Hurricane Katrina, people would not leave their pets when the rescuers came. I know I would never leave Hobbes, our dog, during a disaster. Although the chance of a disaster happening is very small, I realized I didn’t have a disaster plan.

Do you have plans for your cat, dog, small animals like guinea pigs and hamsters, snakes and reptiles, or horse? Do you have a bag packed with their vaccine record, food, contact information, or proof they are part of your family?

The American Veterinary Medical Association’s website contains information disaster preparedness. The AVMA has a very complete plan called “Saving the Whole Family©” waiting for you to download. It covers:

  • Small animals, equine, livestock, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals
  • Preparing a disaster plan
  • In case you are not at home
  • Identification of small animals, equine, and livestock
  • Transportation/housing
  • Evacuation kit by animal type
  • And more!

I printed my copy and started gathering the information and materials. Even if you only read “Saving the Whole Family,” you are more prepared. I hope none of us ever have to use our disaster plans!

  • Does your pet have pain or act scared sometimes?
  • Ever wish you could tell her something she would understand?
  • Wish you knew what he was thinking?

Every people/pet team has unique needs. Often, a combination of approaches will serve both the client and the pet best. It really depends on each individual animal and person’s needs. All methods are gentle and loving.

Each session is as unique as your pet and each session with your pet can be unique from her previous sessions.

It’s easy to set up your sessions, just contact me here or call me at 612-237-9580. I’m happy to help you explore the options and find the best solution for your unique situation.

“Elaine has been very helpful and supportive since my adoption of a very anxious dog. Her t-touch sessions and ongoing communication has helped us both. She has great suggestions and is very responsive to my frantic calls.” – Lynnea Forness, Minneapolis, MN

2 Replies to “What To Do About Your Animal During a Disaster”

  1. This is very helpful information. You can also find all the information you need for your dog in the “Not Without My Dog” Resource & Record Book. This book shares what I learned about keeping your dog safe when I took care of rescued animals in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. It includes a template for making a disaster plan and checklists for making disaster preparedness kits for your family (including pets). More info at http://www.8StateKate.net.

    1. Thanks for the information Jenny! Jenny’s other book “* State Hurricane Kate” is a true story and wonderful read!

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