Earthquake and Tsunami Pet Disaster Protocols

!±8± Earthquake and Tsunami Pet Disaster Protocols

Earthquake? Tsunami? Do you know what to do?

During a major earthquake, tsunami or other catastrophe, having a pet earthquake disaster plan is absolutely necessary. In a major emergency, most international rescue response teams are going to be focusing on helping people. Nevertheless, there will be pets distressed, stranded, unintentionally abandoned and injured. In an earthquake or tsunami buildings crumple, fires break out, and cars get over turned. Local animal shelters and pet rescue agencies may find that their services are being overwhelmed. Survival for you and your dog will depend on you knowing what to do.

Before An Earthquake or Tsunami Strikes

If you live in an earthquake area, on a fault line or near the coast, then it is importance to have an earthquake or tsunami disaster plan. Before an earthquake strikes, you need to store enough food and water to last for at least 72 - 120 hours. Assemble an emergency kit that includes your pets ID, vet records and any pet medicines that they must take daily. It should also include some pet first aid supplies.

During An Earthquake Disaster

During the earthquake, you and your pet need to take cover, drop down and protect your head, neck and back. We live in our head and our chest. Therefore we need to protect these vital areas.

If you are inside, expect high things to fall and glass to break. Do not light a match until you are sure that there are no gas leaks. If you are outside and driving pull over and comfort your pet. In past earthquakes some pet owners have stated later that their pets showed signs of anticipating the coming disaster. So the earthquake may have your pet very stressed.

After An Earthquake A Tsunami May Result

In coastal cities, it is not uncommon for danger to continue with aftershocks or a coming Tsunami. Do not leave your pet outside and chained. If you are on low ground, head for high ground and stay there. Do not get tempted to return to retrieve belongings. Waves can continue for hours, so exercise patience. Danger can result from both the size of the wave and the fact that waves can reach speeds of 450 miles per hour causing enormous destruction and death.

Earthquake or Tsunami Post Traumatic Stress in Pets

After the earth quake, keep a close watch on your pet for post traumatic stress. Your dog might not process the stress as well as you. A trip to the vet may be necessary for medication and professional attention.