Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, and floods, or even possibly electric fires in our homes or possibly (the thread of) terrorist attacks, force pet owners to make quick decisions pertaining to the care of their pets.
It is best to plan ahead, which requires preparing an emergency kit (like the one featured to the right) and practicing to achieve a fast, safe and efficient evacuation during emergencies.
- Assemble and place the emergency kit in an easily accessible area. Have your pet's carriers assembled and labeled with permanent ink as follows:
- Parrots Name
- Owner's Name, Address and Telephone Number
- Emergency Contact Name and Telephone
- Veterinarian's Name, Address and Telephone Number
- "REWARD WHEN RETURNED TO OWNER"- to increase your chance of having the pet returned should the carrier get lost in the commotion.
- Plan and practice how you would get your pets to safety.
- Get your parrot used to his cage. If possible, train him or her to wear a bird harness.
- Besides the carrier, you should have an emergency kit (stored in a sturdy container) readily available, containing the following:
- Disinfectant (e.g., Nolvasan) & spray bottle for holding disinfectant solution
- Bottled Water (3 days minimum - up to 2 week's worth - rotate every 3 months)
- Emergency Food - Dry Food (3 days minimum - up to 2 week's worth - rotate every 3 month)
- Paper Towels and Regular Towels
- Any medications your pet may need - about two weeks' worth kept in a waterproof container (rotate every two months). Have chemical ice packs and a small, insulated cooler, if medication needs refrigeration
- Emergency contact information
- Recent photograph & leg band or microchip information; as well as copies of proof of ownership papers (registration information, adoption papers, proof of purchase).
- Toys
- Newspaper to line the cage
- Flashlight & batteries
- Blanket to cover the cage
- Bird Leash
- Check out temporary pet-friendly living quarters (motels, boarding facilities, veterinarians, friends, or relatives) ahead of time.
- Make sure that you have enough cash on hand. Credit cards cannot be processed when the electricity is out and checks may not be accepted.