Protect Your Pet in an Emergency

June is National Pet Preparedness Month. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure so planning ahead on what to do in case of an emergency can help you be better prepared to correctly and safely handle the unexpected.

June is National Pet Preparedness Month. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure so planning ahead on what to do in case of an emergency can help you be better prepared to correctly and safely handle the unexpected.

Packed and Ready to Go

Having an emergency kit on hand and ready to go in a backpack or tote if the need arises is a smart step, for pets and humans. Some key items to include might be:

•         Food – at least 7 days’ worth (replenish at least once a year)
•         Water – at least 7 days’ worth
•         Jacket and/or blanket (if needed)
•         Disposable bags for waste clean-up
•         Dishes/Water bowls – you can find light weight or collapsible bowls
•         Collar with name tags
•         Medical Records
•         Medications if necessary
•         Current/Recent photo in case you are separated
•         Extra leash, toys, chews, beds, etc., if allowable and transportable
•         Litter/litter pan – if  you have cats

Plan Ahead By Having a PLAN 

In the event of an emergency, we often react quickly and need to make quick decisions. If you have a plan already in place on what you'll do in case you need to leave your home quickly or evacaute an area in short notice, you'll be ready to act fast. Consider what your exit route will be in case of a fire and where to meet up if you get separated in a crowded location. Make sure all family members know the plan and you'll be ready in case the need arises.

Nature's First Aid Kit

Five Flower Remedy – This is also referred to as Rescue Remedy. I think in an emergency situation, we could all use some emotional support, both for the humans and animals. Five flower remedy is a blend of flower essences that allow us to calmly handle difficult situations as they arise and to do so with ease. This remedy can be used frequently in times of added stress or anxiety.

Lavender Essential Oil – This “universal essential oil” is good for many different aspects. It can be used on open wounds to relieve pain as well as to calm those who are hysterical. Some other properties of lavender include anti-infectious, antiseptic, anti-fungal, anti-tumor, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.

Cinnamon Essential Oil – Although this essential oil has a spicy note, it has the capabilities to rid water of pathogens that cause human gastrointestinal distress if there isn’t a way to purify water. Just a few drops in one gallon of water will do the job!

Aconite – This homeopathic’s main job is to help deal with shock. When leaving your home in an emergency, it can be very shocking to family members. Many times in an emergency you don’t have much time to gather items.  Great anxiety and fear, combined with a “deer in the head lights” look, is a key indicator that this remedy is needed.

Phosphorus – This homeopathic is great for profuse bleeding either internally or externally. It can be used in cases of food poisoning or stomach upset such as vomiting after food is ingested. It can also be helpful for animals that have a tendency to be scared or anxious from thunderstorms or other loud noises.

Activated Charcoal – These capsules are great to have on hand in case of food poisoning or other noxious agents. It binds to toxins within the entire intestinal tract, including the stomach, and is able to help eliminate them from the body. You can also use it topically as a poultice on the skin to draw venom out of bites.

Silver Shield – This is the “everything” replacement! This odorless, tasteless liquid is great to always have on hand for everyone in the household to use. It can help with just about every scenario, both internally and externally. Silver shield has antibacterial, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antiparasitic and antiviral benefits, eases food poisoning and acts as a digestive aid, immune stimulant, antiseptic, and disinfectant. Make sure this is packed in your emergency kit!

Being prepared make the unexpected less daunting. Next time you visit The Pet Beastro, take a minute to catch up with one of our Pet Nutrition Specialist on ideas on how best to have what you need on hand to provide care for your pet if an emergency arises.