Experts offer tips for pet owners during National Pet Preparedness Month

DELMARVA – Similar to National Emergency Preparedness Month, which is recognized every September, the month of June focuses on ensuring our pets are prepared in case of an emergency.

Sara Smith with the Brandywine Valley SPCA says it’s a great time for pet owners to think about including their furry friends in those plans. She says one of the first things you should do is ensure that your pet is microchipped, so that way if you and your pet get separated, you can be more easily reunited.

“The best way that you can get them back to you is that they have a microchip and that it’s registered to you.”

Vet offices, shelters, and even police stations have the ability to scan for microchips. Smith says she can’t stress enough how important it is to have your pet microchipped.

Another important tip from Smith is to keep any necessary items for your pets in one place. This includes medications, flea and tick preventatives, or anything pertaining to their health. These items should be kept in an airtight container with the rest of your emergency supplies. You should also keep any paperwork your furry friend needs, as well as extra food, water, and treats in your emergency kit.

One final important tip from Smith is to plan and practice your escape route from your home with your pets. Knowing where your pets sleep is important, so you can easily grab them and get out of the house as quickly as possible.

“These emergencies could be hurricanes,they could be power outages, it could be flooding, it could be storms, it could be a fire. You know these are all things you need to prepare for and be ready to pick up and leave your home. And you wanna have your pet included in that plan.”