How prepared is your pet for an emergency? September is National Preparedness Month and pet experts are reminding people to not forget about their pets.
More than half of all U-S households have family pets. Pet expert Charlotte Reed says pets need to be prepared for natural disasters and emergencies just as people do. She says pets are very sensitive to the threat of severe weather and should be brought indoors in the event of a storm warning.
Reed also says it's a good idea to have a "go-bag" for your pets that is packed and ready in case of an emergency. She says you should have two or three days of food and water for each pet along with any medications. Reed says you should practice your safety plan and also know where your pets like to hide in your home so that that they can be quickly located in case of an emergency or evacuation.
It's also a good idea to have collars and leashes ready along with any type of specialized carrier for birds or other animals. Reed says it's also a good idea to find out in advance if emergency shelters in your area allow pets.
