Simple and inexpensive to make, a pet emergency kit is a must for your home

Blizzards, flooding, and power outages are par for the course during the harsh New England winters. When you’re stocking your pantry and gathering snow removal equipment for the next big storm, don’t forget to plan ahead for your pet too! In the event of an evacuation, natural disaster, or other emergency the Animal Rescue League of Boston wants to make sure that your pet is already packed and ready to go with you! Follow these 7 steps to keep your pet safe during an emergency In addition to having a sturdy comfortable crate or carrier on-hand for transporting your pet, be sure to prepare a pet emergency kit ahead of time with the following supplies:

• Water-resistant backpack or lightweight bag to hold everything
  

  Don’t forget to bring a photocopy or portable USB drive of your pet’s medical records.

• Food and water – at least 3 days worth!
• Portable food and water bowls
• Manual can opener and fork, or measuring cup
• Litter or newspaper to shred and litter boxes
• Paper towels and trash bags for additional pet sanitation needs
• Bleach (dilute 9 parts water to 1 part bleach for cleaning)
• Pet first aid kit
• Collar with ID tags – be sure the information is up-to-date!
• Leash
• Medications and medical records stored in a waterproof container
• Toys
• Treats
• Bedding
• Grooming items

ALSO, DON’T FORGET… to make your pet easy to ID! If you become separated from your pet, you’ll want to locate and claim them as quickly as possible. Microchipping your pet is always a good idea and a fail-safe way to verify that you’re their owner. Also, keep a photo of you and your pet together handy to help others easily identify them. For more useful pet safety advice, visit arlboston.org/helpfultips.