Pets of the Month

container. If your pet only eats wet food, include easy-open cans and a plastic lid. Water. A water bowl (regular or collapsible) and several days’ supply of water. Meds. An extra supply of any necessary pet medication in a waterproof container. If meds require refrigeration, keep a small ice pack in your freezer that you can quickly stow in a baggie or insulated bag to keep meds cool. First-aid kit. You can purchase generic, preprepared kits, or you can make your own; check with your vet first on any specific needs for your pet. ASPCA offers a great resource for building your own at https:// www.aspcapro.org/resource/ how-make-pet-first-aid-kit. ID information. In addition to microchipping, provide a collar with ID tag and a harness or leash for dogs (or other pets that walk on a leash). For other pets, have an ID card.

Pet boarding instruction

sheet. If someone else will be caring for your pet, an instruction sheet should be placed with your pet or attached to the carrier like the one at https:// www.cdc.gov/healthypets/ resources/disaster-prep-PetInformation-for-Boarding. pdf.

Traveling bag, crate, or

carrier. Have one enclosed and safe transport for each pet. Grooming items. Pet shampoo, animal-safe wipes, brushes and combs in case your pet needs some cleaning.

Sanitation needs.

Appropriate pet litter and litter box (disposable boxes pre-filled with cat litter are available), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, poop bags, bleach or other cleaning/disinfecting agent.

A picture of you and your

pet together. In case you get separated, a picture will help document ownership and help in identifying your pet. Items familiar to your pet for comfort. Treats, toys, and bedding.

While most pet owners will be preparing kits for dogs and cats, the ASPCA has a list of evacuation considerations for birds, reptiles and other less usual pets at https:// www.aspca.org/pet-care/ general-pet-care/disasterpreparedness.

Once you have your plan in place and your emergency togo kit(s) prepared, you have a better chance at safely and calmly evacuating your pet(s) during an emergency.

About the Author: Lisa Velenovsky is a long-time resident of Alexandria, an animal lover and a volunteer at King Street Cats. She wishes to thank her cats Windsor, Nina and Parker for all their “help” in completing this article. For more comprehensive information about preparing you and your pet before, during, and after emergency evacuation situations, check out the source links below. Sources:

www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness alexandriaanimals.org/community-assistance/emergency-preparedness/ alexandriaanimals.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/EmergencyPreparedness-Guide.pdf www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/disaster-preparedness-checklist.pdf www.cdc.gov/healthypets/emergencies/pet-disaster-prep-kit.html www.ready.gov/pets www.alexandriava.gov/Emergency

PETS

OF THE MONTH

4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774 alexandriaanimals.org Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

JACK AND ZOE

7-year-old terrier mix, Jack, and 12-year-old miniature schnauzer mix, Zoe, are the perfect pair. They’ve lived together for Jack’s whole life and go together like peanut butter and jelly, peanut butter and bananas or peanut butter and fluff (they really like peanut butter!). Jack takes the lead on snuggling, while Zoe is an expert walker, but together, they will expand your family exponentially. Schedule time to meet them at AlexandriaAnimals.org/Adopt-ByAppointment.

MISSY

8-year-old Missy is an Office “Meow-nager” supreme! Though she is currently supervising an office of one at the AWLA, she looks forward to expanding her role to supervise one, two or even four people in a home office setting. Whether it’s keeping your seat warm or making sure your keyboard gets enough typing, Missy will be there by your side to make sure you’re reaching peak productivity. To check out her full resume, visit AlexandriaAnimals.org/Adopt.

THEODORE

Theodore Rabbit thinks it’s funny that he is a Himalayan, when as far as he knows, he’s never been further than Maryland! At 4 years old, what Theodore lacks in worldliness, he more than makes up for in snuggliness. Theodore is currently staying with a foster family, but if you’d like to learn more or schedule time to meet him, email adopt@ alexandriaanimals.org or call 703.746.4774 x2.

The AWLA has a lot of amazing adoptables at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter and even more in foster care throughout the community. Meet some of our foster favorites and schedule time to meet them by emailing adopt@alexandriaanimals.org.