Be pet ready

Pets are an important part of family life and your emergency planning preparations should also consider their welfare.

In many instances for short term overnight evacuations it may be appropriate to leave certain pets safely indoors, but there will be instances when this is not an option. Have your pet microchipped and make sure that you keep your address and phone number up-to-date.

If you have to remain in your home

• Make sure your pets remain indoors with you where they are safe – remember pets can be frightened as well!
• Keep a minimum of 3 days' supply of pet food and drinking water inside waterproof containers, along with other emergency supplies.

If you have to evacuate your home

• Plan ahead to ensure that your pets will have a safe place to stay.
• Check with friends and/or relatives living outside your immediate area to see if they're willing and able to shelter you and your pets, or just your pets if necessary.
• Make a list of pet boarding shelters that might be able to accommodate your pets in emergencies.
• If you have to evacuate and intend to stay in a hotel or other lodging accommodation, take the time to check their policies on accepting pets and whether a ‘no pet’ policy would be waived in an emergency.
• If you evacuate to a local authority (council) rest centre, arrangements will be made to safely accommodate your pets.
• Take a picture of you and your pet together - this will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you if you become separated. Add species, breed, age, sex, colour and distinguishing characteristics.

What happens if you are not home and your neighbourhood/road is told to evacuate?

• Talk to your immediate neighbour and plan for this eventuality.
• Make sure your neighbour is familiar with your pet and where to locate a lead and/or carrier basket.
• It’s best to be on the safe side and make sure that your pet has up to date identification and contact information, just in case your pet is lost during the emergency.