Dear Annie: Adding pets to your disaster preparedness plans

Dear Annie: I have a message I hope you will please share.

The last several years have seen numerous natural disasters. The human toll has been great, but there are thousands of other victims that have no voice. Pets, especially cats, are left behind. I encourage all pet owners to have a disaster plan for their pets. Please make sure you have some basic supplies that are readily accessible. Carriers, medications, leashes, working flashlights to help find them if it’s dark or if the power is out. If there is time, food, bowls and beds would be great, too. I even keep brand-new pet playpens, folded up and ready to go so I have a portable house that can be set up. Make sure and have the ones with a zippered floor, not Velcro, or pets can escape.

Too many pets are left behind. I realize they can’t all be saved, but thousands are killed every year that could be saved. More end up in already overburdened shelters. Please make arrangements with family, and or neighbors, in case you are not home. I also encourage shelters, breeders, or anyone rehoming an animal to educate new pet parents about disaster preparedness. – Pam S., Concerned Pet Parent

Dear Pam: Your letter couldn’t be more timely, as hurricane season gets underway on the East Coast, fire season kicks off in the West, and floods and tornados ravage the middle of the country. In addition to your excellent tips, I’d recommend that pet parents consider the ASPCA’s Disaster Preparedness checklist. Find it at https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness.