How to Do Disaster Plans for Pet Sitters
If you are going to operate a pet sitting business, you have to plan for the unexpected. Natural disasters such as an earthquake, hurricane, tornado or flood can put the life of the pet you are caring for in jeopardy. If a disaster strikes while a pet is in your care, it is your responsibility to protect and care for them.
- Determine where you will bring the animals in your care in the event of a disaster. Most emergency shelters do not allow animals, and therefore you must make alternate arrangements such as a friend or family member’s house, or a nearby motel that is close to the home of the pet.
- Keep a kennel, leash and muzzle in the trunk of your car at all times when you are pet sitting. These items will come in handy in the event of a disaster. Dogs often become frightened during a disaster and may attempt to run away or bite. You want to secure the muzzle on the dog in your care and then place them into a kennel in your car for their own safety as well as the safety of others.
- Keep supplies in your trunk to clean up after the pets in your care just in case they have an accident in your car. Baby wipes, towels and garbage bags are good items to have on hand if you are a pet sitter.
- Order a first aid kit that is specifically designed for pets. The basic first aid supplies you will need in the event of a disaster will be included in this kit. You can purchase a pet first aid kit at your local pet supply store or online.
- Protect the pet in your care as if it was your own. You are responsible for the care of the pet until the owner can be located in the event of a disaster. Do not flee the home and leave the pet behind, take the pet with you to somewhere safe until the owner can be located.