The next “big one” is coming and, if you live in California, you’re probably expecting it. With any luck, you’ve even assembled an earthquake kit for yourself and your family and have a plan for it all. But wait! What about the four-legged members of your family? Did you remember your furry little friends? Just in case you didn’t, read on to find out the best tips to keep your pets safe in the event of an earthquake emergency.
The first thing to consider is making sure that your pet has proper identification. Whether a collar tag or a microchip, keep your pets’ IDs and records up to date if catastrophe should strike and you get separated from your loved ones. Another good idea is to keep a recent photo of your pet (after all, they are members of the family too!) on your person or even stored in your phone just in case you might need help looking for them after having gotten separated.

Earthquake Safety Kits

Another important part of any earthquake safety kit for humans and animals alike is a good supply of sustenance. Keep canned and dry food on hand in an convenient place (and don’t forget a can opener if you have canned food without a pop-up lid). Like human food, pet food can expire and, in order to be sure that your pet will be getting the fresh food that they need in an emergency, it is prudent to go through your food supply once a year and rotate both dry and wet food. Water is also vital to keeping your pets well. Nearby water sources can become contaminated during an earthquake and you don’t want your pets drinking tainted water. To avoid this, having a good supply of bottled water for your pet is encouraged.

Beware of pets habits

Keeping your pets healthy and happy in the event of an emergency is important and a calm pet might just be what keeps you calm too in a potentially scary situation. Additionally, be aware of where your pets tend to hide when they are scared as this may be the first place they instinctively go to during an earthquake. You might even want to keep treats in an easily accessed location if you need to try and get them to come out of their hiding places and come along with you.

Pet carriers are invaluable in emergencies

Should you have to evacuate your home, it is also a good idea to keep pet carriers handy. Make sure that you put bedding in the carriers that will make your pet feel the most comfortable, especially if you have no choice but to remove them from their comfort zones. If you have to leave your home and go to a shelter, think about bringing along toys or blankets that your pets have a special liking for as this comfort of home will help them to be less stressed out in a different environment from the one they are used to. Remember, the more relaxed you and your pets are, the better off everyone will be. Your pets will thank you in their own special way and you will be much calmer in the face of danger when both you and they are prepared for whatever is to come.

For more information, check out:
https://earthshakes.com/ebooks/PetsEarthquakePreparedness.pdf

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/ADEM/Divisions/Preparedness/Earthquake/pets.aspx