JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Even as hurricane season inches closer to an end, emergency veterinarians warn that disasters can strike without warning, and preparation can make all the difference for pet owners.
Recent flooding in downtown St. Augustine demonstrated how quickly life can turn upside down, and for pet owners, such emergencies can add another layer of complexity to an already stressful situation.
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“The most common emergency is not taking time ahead of time to be prepared,” said Dr. Sarah Nelle Timberlake, an emergency veterinarian at VEG ER on Town Center Parkway.
Timberlake emphasizes that a pet-friendly survival kit is crucial. The kit should include:
- Updated microchip information and current pet identification
- Go-bag containing 1-2 weeks of food, water and medications
- Hard copies of vaccination records and veterinary information
- Spare leash and collar
- Favorite blanket and toys to help reduce pet stress
When it comes to evacuation planning, knowing which facilities accept pets is crucial.
“The most important part about evacuation is going to be knowing what shelters and what locations are going to accept pets,” Timberlake said. “You should plan ahead to know where you’re going to go. Having printed vaccination records ready means you’re prepared for boarding your pet or crossing state lines.”
During disasters, pets may experience heightened anxiety or other medical issues. VEG ER, which operates 24/7 without requiring appointments, recommends seeking immediate treatment if pets show signs of distress during emergency situations.