If COVID-19 has prompted you to prepare your household and family for an emergency, you are certainly not alone. Your pets, though, may not be top of mind as part of those plans. A preparedness plan for your pets should involve the following: Identify a trusted family member or friend to care for your pets if you become ill or are hospitalized. Having one or two back-up contacts is also a good idea. Ensure everyone is onboard to help should the need arise.
Judy Calhoun & Ellie
Research boarding facilities to utilize in the event boarding your pet is needed.
Your pet’s vaccines should be up to date in the event boarding becomes necessary. Ensure all medications are documented with dosages and administering instructions.
Have crates, food, and extra supplies for your pet on hand in case moving them becomes necessary and to ensure you are well-stocked should access to supplies be limited or supply shortages occur.
Pets should have a collar with current identification tags, rabies tag and license, and a registered microchip. (Confirm your microchip registration is current by contacting your microchip company or foundanimals.org.)
We advise creating this plan and keeping it up to date regardless of COVID-19. Be sure the caregivers identified for your pets know where their supplies and documents are stored.
Unfortunately, emergencies happen. Ensuring you have a plan for your pet provides a safety net of care for them, and peace of mind for you. Recognizing that plans sometimes fall through, Larimer Humane Society and other animal shelters in your community may provide emergency care for pets in situations such as an owner’s hospitalization.
~ Judy Calhoun is CEO of Larimer Humane Society in Loveland. Their mission is to further the compassionate, safe, and responsible relationship between animals and people. Info: LarimerHumane.org.