Emergency Preparedness- Tornadoes, 2

"Joplin Tornado, 2011"
(C) Bud Hance Photography

As my human was attending the BlogPaws Conference 2013 in Tysons Corner, VA, last week, he learned a few more safety tips for Pet Parents which will be useful in the area of “Emergency Preparedness.”

• When planning your hiding place during a tornado, check it out for objects that could hurt your pet and remove them. Items like glass or poisonous liquids such as housecleaning items should be removed.

• Know where your animals like to hide during storms or any loud noises like firecrackers. Like for me, if my humans aren't home, I go to my crate or one of my big pillows in his photography studio or in their bedroom to curl up. If my humans are home, I usually hang out with Dad until it’s I’m comfortable it’s over. If Mom is home, I place my head on her lap and she pets me. Now, for me, my humans could find me in an emergency. For one, I’m too big to hide anywhere and not be found. And, when Dad says my name in that “certain demanding tone,” I know to come running- he pretty much rules when I hear it. But, if my humans can’t find me- they know where to look!

• Have your human carry a picture of you so he can show it off to everyone in case you get separated after the storm.

• Display a "pet rescue" sticker on the front and back entry doors to your home so the First Responders will know to look for you too. Include your vets name and phone number on it too. 

• Be sure to identify a safe place, like a shelter that accepts animals or a hotel, that you can evacuate too. Remember not all places are pet friendly including the shelters set up for local residents.

• Prepare an emergency box of pet supplies that's readily accessible:
• First Aid Supplies
• First Aid Book
• 3-Day Food Supply in a waterproof container
• Bottled water
• Safety harness and leash
• Waste clean-up supplies (remember to bring something for when your pet pees!)- Plenty of paper towels, sanitary clean up stuff.
• Medications and medical records
• Contact list of Veterinarian and Pet Care organizations
• Note your pets feeding routine.
• Note any behavior issues.
• Toys
• A blanket
• If you need to evacuate, consider taking a crate. I have a travel crate which is easily packed in my human's car. 

Remember: In a tornado, seconds count. When you hear about a tornado watch in your area, your human should start your preparation immediately. Should it turn into a tornado warning, you are prepared to take action. 

Our tips and ideas for being prepared for a Tornado come from various sources of reading. Today's information is a mixed from discussion with a Hills representative at the BlogPaws Conference 2013.

"Joplin Tornado"
(C) Bud Hance Photography

Allen Pearson's Photos and From the Dogs Paw would like to thank Bud Hance Photography for allowing us to use his images on our posts.