Data from a new national survey by PetSmart Charities, conducted in conjunction with National Pet Preparedness Month, reveal that the emotional bond of Americans with pets cannot be brokeneven when disaster strikes.
The survey reveals that most pet owners in the US are prepared to evacuate their homes with their pets in the event of an immediate disaster, but they would not leave home if they could not take their pets to a safe place with themand would even give up their place in a shelter if they couldn’t stay there with their pets.
The survey is timely, since June is the National Pet Preparedness Month and the start of the hurricane and wildfire seasons across the country.
National Pet Preparedness Month is a reminder for all pet owners to develop an emergency plan for the entire family, including pets. To learn how to prepare to evacuate to a safe place with pets and to download a pet preparedness checklist, go here.
According to the survey:
· If there is an evacuation order, but you cannot bring your pets, 76% of those surveyed said they would stay home with their pet.
· If they evacuate, but their pets cannot stay with them at the shelter, 80% said they would give up their place at the shelter.
Strong emotional ties keep pets and their owners together, with 86% of respondents saying they the emotional support of your pet would be essential to overcome a disaster.
· More than a half (63%) had concerns about whether nearby pet-friendly shelters were available for them in an emergency.
· Additional survey results reveal that for pet owners, knowing what to do to evacuate their pets and where they can go to stay together is the most important thing.
Prevention actions:
· Keep a “to go bag”– Have a pet carrier, harness or leash ready to go at a moment’s notice and have a recent photo of the pets handy.
· Update information– Make sure pets wear a collar or tags and microchip information is up to date.
· Be careful– Make sure pets are up-to-date on all vaccinations and bring a list of medications the pet needs and your veterinarian’s contact information.
· Know where to go– Make a list of nearby pet-friendly shelter options.
To learn more about PetSmart Charities and helping pet owners in times of disaster, go here.
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· Are you one of those people who can’t live without their pet? Amazon lets you bring your dog to the office
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