September is National Emergency Preparedness Month and Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, is reminding pet owners of the critical importance of including their pets in their emergency planning.
A national study estimates that 83 percent of pet owners in the United States reported living in a community that is threatened by natural disasters, yet only 46 percent have developed an emergency preparedness plan that includes their pet.
Furthermore, one in five pet owners have evacuated their homes due to a disaster and nearly half have left at least one pet behind during an evacuation, often due to a lack of time, cost, and inadequate preparation.
While displacement can seem unlikely, natural disasters, fires, accidents, extreme temperatures, and other events could force someone to unexpectedly leave their home. Having a plan in place can help to ensure a positive outcome in a stressful situation.
Lollypop Farm recommends making important preparations to safeguard pets during an emergency, including having a carrier for each small pet and leashes for each dog, updated vaccination records for each pet, photos of your pets in case of separation, medications, food, blankets, toys, litter, and any other items that may be needed to maintain your pet’s health and well-being.
If the unthinkable happens and your pet goes missing during an emergency, Lollypop Farm can help. Pet owners can submit a Lost Pet Report through their website giving detailed information about their pet. This information will prove vital should your pet find its way to Lollypop Farm. Submitting a form will also automatically share your pet’s information with the Lollypop Farm team and add it to their public lost and found listings and social media accounts.
Emergencies also require fast action to keep pets safe. That’s why Lollypop Farm offers classes in pet first aid and CPR, giving owners the knowledge and skills needed to provide temporary, life-saving care until professional veterinary help is available. Through these resources, Lollypop Farm is committed to helping people protect and care for their pets when it matters most.
For more helpful tips, including a template to create a pet identification card or to learn more about the various classes being offered, visit Lollypop Farm’s website.
To discover how Lollypop Farm is making a difference across the Greater Rochester region through life-saving animal care, essential services, and impactful educational programming, or to learn how to can get involved, visit http://www.lollypop.org.
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