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Animal Control Dog and Cat

Emergency Preparations for Your Pet

Like people, pets need to be prepared for disasters. When you pack your own survival kit, please consider packing one for your pet(s) as well. The following are suggested items for inclusion:
  • A current color photograph of your pet, to assist in locating your pet should you become separated
  • A copy of all current vaccination and health records, license numbers and microchip numbers (Store photo and records in a plastic bag or other waterproof container.)
  • A two week supply of water and food, along with bowls
  • A manual can opener
  • A leash and harness
  • Medication for your pet, if needed
  • A basic feeding and medication schedule
  • A secure pet carrier or cage. Hint: a luggage carrier can be used to wheel the pet carrier around
  • A cotton sheet to place over the carrier. Hint: This calms pets and makes them feel more secure.
  • Plastic bags and paper towels for cleaning up messes
  • A first aid kit to care for your pet. Contact your veterinarian to determine what items should be placed in the kit
Contact friends or relatives and ask if they would be willing to care for you and your pet(s) should an emergency occur. Ask if they would take your pet to safety if you were away from home.

Contact your vet, groomer or regular boarding facility and inquire if they provide shelter care for animals during times of emergencies or disasters.  Ask to be included on any reservation list.

Ask animal shelters in your area whether they provide temporary care for pets in the event of an emergency. 

Be mindful larger animals may require more planning.

Make a written disaster plan and be sure to include provisions for both you and your pets and appropriate evacuation sites.

Don’t leave your pet(s) behind during a disaster!  If forced to evacuate, make sure there is a place for your pets to go.  Pets left behind may be injured or lost.

Keep your pet(s) in a carrier for the duration of the disaster. This makes the pets feel safer and more secure. 

Make plans NOW for your pet(s) should a disaster occur.

Always keep your pet(s) tagged and on a leash or in a secure carrier.
Keep all vaccinations up to date. License your pet and have a microchip put in them. (For more information call the Bowie Animal Control Division at 301-809-3002).

Links:

Pet Friendly Hotels in the Bowie Area

"Emergency Pet Preparedness" - ASPCA Brochure

"Pets and Disaster" - Prince George's County Brochure

Humane Society of the United States 

Federal Emergency Management Agency

American Red Cross

City of Bowie Emergency Preparedness for Pets Brochure

 

 


301-809-3002 or
301-262-6200, ext. 3002
TTY:301-262-5013

To reach an Animal Control Officer after 5 p.m. on Friday or during the day on Saturday, call 301-440-5252.

Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Animal Control Officer on Duty: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.