5 Reasons to Prepare Pets for Natural Disasters, Tornados, Hurricanes, Floods

Here are six reasons you should prepare for disasters with pets, along with some tips on how to do so:

My Bloodhound Daisy who was the inspiration for this site and books. 

Preparedness with pets is not only good for them, but also for you. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of losing or injuring your pet and yourself, plus have peace of mind in case of an emergency.

1. Pets are part of your family and you don't want to lose them in a crisis. Make sure you have a collar and a tag with your contact information for each pet, as well as a microchip if possible. Keep a recent photo of your pet in case you get separated.

2. Pets can provide comfort and support during stressful times. They can help you cope with anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Keep your pets close to you and try to maintain their normal routine as much as possible. 

3. Pets may need special care and supplies that are not readily available in an emergency situation. Prepare a pet emergency kit that includes food, water, bowls, leash, harness, carrier, litter, toys, medications, and veterinary records. Store it in a safe and accessible place.

 4. Pets may not be allowed in some shelters or evacuation centers, so you need to have a plan for them. Research pet-friendly hotels or motels in advance and keep a list of their phone numbers and locations. Ask your friends or relatives if they can take care of your pets in case of an emergency. You can also contact local animal shelters or rescue groups for assistance. 

5. Pets may get injured, sick, or lost during a disaster, so you need to have a first aid kit and identification for them. Learn how to perform basic first aid on your pets and keep a manual or a guide handy. Check your pets for signs of injury or illness and seek veterinary help if needed. If your pets go missing, contact local animal control agencies and post flyers with their photo and description.

Learn how to prepare your dog for evacuation and disasters with my book

 Evacuate with Your Dog's Help

From that link you can find the Family Disaster Dogs book with over 60 easy do at home lessons to help you be prepared.

All photos are copyrighted and my own.

Fire Danger Spring Cleanup Can Start a Wildfire

 

Fire Warning Mowing and Weed Whacking Can Start a Wildfire

As a former volunteer fire fighter and K9 search and rescue team leader, I would like to let all of my readers know that in the windy dry weather conditions we are experiencing across the United States there is a danger to doing spring yard cleanup.

I want to ask everyone to Please try to do your best to prevent a fire so that you and neighbors do not have to evacuate or lose everything.  

 

As I write this article, we are experiencing an extremely windy low humidity day with very dry conditions due to less rain this spring season.  It’s perfect wildfire weather and there are many out of control fires burning in several states. 

Our county is under a Red Flag Fire Alert - meaning the possibility of a wild fire starting is much more likely due to the weather.  We are also under a Burn Ban - meaning Do Not Burn anything until further notice. 

We were going to do yard work today, rake or blow leaves, weed whack and mow for spring cleanup but I decided to follow my own instinct and experience to wait for a better day. 

I came inside to write this article instead.  Here are a few facts that may help you prevent a fire from starting.  

Please be careful outside. 

Yes, it is spring cleanup time of the year but mowing dry grass can potentially start a fire, especially during hot dry and extremely windy conditions like we have in many parts of the country.  

Fire Hazard:

Dry grass, especially when tall and "cured" (brown and brittle), is a significant fire hazard. 

Ignition:

These sparks can easily ignite dry grass, especially if the grass is very dry and the conditions are hot and windy. 

Sparks:

Lawn mowers and weed whackers, yard tractors and 4 wheelers can generate sparks from the engine, exhaust system, or when the blade or a metal part strikes rocks or other hard objects. 

Other Fire Hazards:

Besides yard equipment like weed eaters, even chainsaws, and vehicles parked in dry grass can also pose a fire risk. 

Additionally, camp fires and recreational fire pits should not be used. 

Prevention:

• To reduce the risk of fire, it's important to: 

Mow during cooler hours: Early morning is generally the safest time to mow. 

Avoid windy or dry conditions: Do not mow when the weather is excessively dry or windy. 

Keep grass short: Trim grass and weeds to a height of 3" or less, especially within 100 feet of buildings or fences. 

Be cautious with yard equipment: Follow manufacturer's safety guidelines and be aware of potential fire hazards. 

Check for fire restrictions: Be aware of any fire restrictions or bans in your area.

Stay safe everyone and keep your dogs close! 

To prepare for evacuation please read my short but very helpful book here.   It’s free on kindle unlimited and audible. A paperback is available for a small fee to cover publishing on paper. 

Be Prepared with Your Dog

 Click here to go to the Bug-out page and list 

New Children's Christmas Book My Puppy Finds Santa by Amber Higgins 2024

🎄 New Book Release: My Puppy Finds Santa!  🎅

Hello, dear readers!

I'm thrilled to share some exciting news with you today. Just in time for the holiday season, my new book "My Puppy Finds Santa" is now available! This enchanting Christmas tale follows the delightful adventures of Lily and her lovable bloodhound puppy, Max, as they discover the magic of Christmas Eve.

Book Description:

My Puppy Finds Santa

Step into the magical world of Lily and her beloved bloodhound puppy, Max, as they embark on an unforgettable Christmas adventure. One snowy Christmas Eve, Max's keen sense of smell leads them on a delightful journey, filled with the jingling of Santa’s sleigh bells and the sweet scent of falling cookies. From racing around the yard to discovering a cookie trail inside the house, their adventure brings them to a heartwarming surprise in Lily’s bed.

Join Lily and Max as they drift off to sleep, dreaming of the enchanting moments they shared with Santa. This charming tale of friendship, magic, and holiday cheer is sure to capture the hearts of readers young and old. Perfect for cozy winter nights, “My Puppy Finds Santa” is a timeless story that celebrates the magic of Christmas and the joy of a forever home.

Behind the Scenes: 

This story was inspired by my own beloved bloodhound puppies, Snooty Gus and Sniffer Sammy. Rescued in the harshest conditions, they found their forever home with me and filled my life with love and joy. Their journey inspired me to write this book, and I hope it brings warmth and cheer to your holiday season.

Early Reader Reactions:

"A heartwarming Christmas tale that captures the magic of the season!" "An enchanting story for readers young and old."

Where to Buy:

You can find "My Puppy Finds Santa" on Amazon and soon at bookstores worldwide! 

Available in Kindle eBook and Paperback.

Happy Holidays!

Wishing you all a magical and joyous holiday season. May your days be filled with love, laughter, and the warm glow of Christmas cheer.

Warmest wishes, Amber

Copyright (c) Amber Higgins 2024 

Wrinkledpups Publishing

www.familydisasterdogs.com

Visit the book page to see all my books