WEEK 9
Special Prep Considerations—Pets
Whether you view your animals as something akin to employees who are there to do a job, or (like me) you see them truly as members of your family, you need to plan ahead for their needs during and after a disaster. Our pets rely on us to provide them with food, water, and shelter, as well as to take care of any medical needs.
For our discussion here, I’m concentrating mostly on dogs and cats, though the same principles apply to whatever critters you may have. But given that dogs and cats are the most popular family pets, I focus on them.
Our pets have the same needs as we do, so let’s take those one at a time.
WATER
Figure an average of one gallon of water per pet, per day. Obviously toy breeds will require less water than, say, a Siberian husky, so adjust the amount accordingly. The important thing is to have ample water stored for your pets as well as the rest of your family.
FOOD
You should easily be able to calculate how much food your pet will need per day. While you could theoretically feed your pet scraps from your own meals, that’s probably not the wisest plan. First, you might not have scraps to spare. Second, a sudden change in diet may lead to some intestinal issues with your pet.
FIRST AID AND MEDICAL CARE
Basic first aid supplies for pets include gauze wraps, alcohol for disinfection, bandage tape, and antibiotic ointment. If your pet has specific medical needs, such as special medication, talk to your vet about acquiring a small supply to keep on hand for emergency use.
COLLAR AND ID TAGS
Make sure your pet has a collar with appropriate ID and vaccination tags on it. Keep an extra set, with a spare leash, in your pet disaster supply kit. Make copies of ownership paperwork, vaccination records, and medical records and keep this information with your kit.
RECENT PHOTO OF YOU AND YOUR PET
This is very important. Should you and your pet become separated, having a recent picture of the two of you together will help prove ownership. And a photo will help other folks locate your pet if it becomes lost.
PET CARRIER
Should you need to evacuate, transporting your pet in a crate or pet carrier might be beneficial. The crate should be big enough that your pet can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Don’t forget a soft blanket as well as a chew toy or two.
SANITATION
For cats, make sure you have an ample supply of litter for their box. For dogs, if you run into a situation where you won’t be able to let them outside for some reason, a stack of old newspapers along with cleaning supplies may be necessary.
Keep in mind that many public emergency shelters will not allow you to bring in your pets, so plan ahead. Call around to area motels to see which ones are pet friendly. Also, talk to neighbors, friends, and family to discuss who might be able to help you with your pets should you need to evacuate without them.
WEEK 9 ASSIGNMENTS
TASKS
Put together a pet emergency supply kit. Make sure to include all the items listed above, as well as any additional needs for your specific situation. When you start formulating your evacuation plans, be darn sure you’ve included your pets in the equation. Find out where you can go with your pets in an emergency. Be sure to keep them up-to-date on any vaccinations, too: even if a shelter allows pets, it may not if the pet isn’t current on all shots.
SAVINGS
Add $10 to your Prepper Savings Account.
TOTAL PREPPER SAVINGS ACCOUNT: 
WATER STORAGE
One gallon (or two 2-liter bottles) per person or a case of bottled water for the household.
TOTAL WATER STORAGE:
GROCERY LIST
3 cans vegetables, your choice
2 cans fruit, your choice, but stick with those packed in water or juice, rather than syrup
2 cans meat (tuna, chicken, beef), your choice
2 cans soup, not condensed (they require water)
1 package dry soup mix, your choice
1 box instant potatoes
1 lb white rice
