Tips to Prepare for Pet Survival Before an Emergency

Germantown, MD, June 30, 2008 --(PR.com)-- According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey there are about 71.1 Million U.S. households that have a pet. Pet owners will spend about $43.3 Billion in pet supplies during 2008, but notably, not on pet emergency preparedness. Pet spending statistics indicate that most of the money spent will be for the 74.8 million dogs and 88 million cats in the following manner:

Food $16.9 billion
Vet Care $10.9 billion
Supplies/OTC Medicine $10.3billion
Live animal purchases $2.1 billion
Pet Services: grooming & boarding $3.2 billion
Emergency Pet Preparedness $$ Not Reported

Spending for pets ranges from programmable feeding and drinking systems , automatic and battery-operated toys, self-cleaning litter boxes and self-warming pet mats all of which let pets virtually care for themselves-except when a natural disaster, hurricane, flooding or Tornado strikes. No matter how often you scrub or lavishly pamper Sammy, your 90-pound Golden Retriever, he will need your help to prepare for unexpected emergencies.

While families may not be thinking about it, hurricane season officially started the first day of June and ends November 30. Preparation for family pets takes some extra care and planning, which are key elements in protecting animal lives and keeping them safe.

Every year tornadoes, flooding, hurricanes and hazardous-materials incidents, and other disasters threaten the animals that are so important to our lives. The key to pet survival during a disaster, crisis or emergency is to be as prepared as possible before the storm hits.

1) American Preparedness offers Pet First Aid Kits which can be ordered directly on-line at http://coldfiresales.itcstore.com/store/product.aspx?prdId=24336.

Pet owners who register the following code into the E-coupon box when placing an online order (UPR2008) will qualify for a free drawing to win a Family Emergency Preparedness Kit.

2) Every family member should know what he or she needs to take when evacuating with a pet. Pet Owners should prepare enough supplies for their pets in advance. Take the time to make a plan and assemble an emergency kit for each pet. By initiating steps now, pet owners will greatly increase their pet’s chances of survival. Stock up on non-perishables well ahead of time, add perishable items at the last minute, and have everything ready to go at a moment’s notice. Keep everything accessible, stored in sturdy containers (duffel bags, covered trash containers, etc.) that can be carried easily.

Before a Disaster or Emergency:

1. Make sure that pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
2. Have a current photograph
3. Keep a collar with identification for each pet and have a leash on hand to control each pet.
4. Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
5. Plan an evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are all potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.

Prepare a Pet Emergency “Go” Kit

1. medications,
2. medical records stored in a waterproof container or on a USB Drive carried on a keychain,
3. a first aid kit,
4. pet first aid book also is good to have
5. sturdy leashes, harnesses,
6. carriers to transport pets safely and to ensure that your pets can’t escape. Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand comfortably, turn around, and lie down.
7. pet supply containers (duffel bags, covered trash containers, etc.) which can be carried easily
8. food and water for at least three days for each pet,
9. food bowls,
10. cat litter and litter box,
11. a manual can opener
12. current photos and detailed descriptions of your pets to help others identify them in case you and your pets become separated and to prove
13. Pet ID tag, and Rabies tags with Owner Information
14. information on feeding schedules,
15. information on medical conditions, behavior problems
16. the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have a medical emergency during or after a disaster, need to board your pets or place them in foster care during evacuations

Other Useful Items to Include:
1. newspapers,
2. paper towels,
3. plastic trash bags,
4. grooming items,
5. household bleach

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Note for Editors: More about American Preparednes:

All emergency pet first aid kits and family emergency preparedness kits are sold by a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business. American Preparedness has been involved in first aid, disaster preparedness, fire safety, and odor abatement since 1981. Its business is split between charitable fundraising efforts and industrial/institutional sales. The largest percentage of AP’s business is conducted with charitable organizations such as the American Red Cross, Special Olympics, American Legion, and Shrine organizations. Ask about AP’s other 760 first aid and emergency related items that are available. For large volume sales contact Jeff Guite, President at American Preparedness, 17800 Des Moines Memorial Drive, Suite D, Seattle, WA 98148. Telephone: (888) 431-4511, Fax: (206) 431-2075, sales@coldfiresales.com.