Disaster Preparation Awareness

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Disasters can happen anywhere at any time. No matter the size, if you’re unprepared, your home and family can be in great danger.

Don’t wait for a disaster announcement to begin preparing. Start now. 

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) along with the Bregman Veterinary Group is encouraging all pet owners to take proper precautions to ensure you and your pets are ready if disaster is to strike. With hurricane season underway, there is no better time to prepare your home and family. 

Here are a few tips on how to begin preparing a disaster plan.

• Setup an appointment to talk to your veterinarian about disaster planning.
• Assemble an animal evacuation kit.
• Develop an evacuation plan for all of your animals and practice the plan.
• If you live in an apartment, make sure your animals are on record with management and are able to evacuate via the stairwell. Dogs should be taught to go up and down stairs to better assist rescue personnel. 
• Keep written directions to your home near your telephone. This will help you and others explain to emergency responders exactly how to get to your home.
• Identify alternate sources of food and water.
• Have well maintained backup generators for use in food-animal production operations.
• Keep all vehicles well maintained and full of gas.
• If you have horses or livestock, good barn and field maintenance can reduce danger. Decide on the safest housing location if evacuation is impossible, realizing that the situation is still life threatening. Assess the stability and safety of barns and other structures, promptly remove dead trees, and minimize debris in the field and immediate environment. 

For additional tips on disaster preparation, please CLICK HERE.