You never think it’ll happen to your pet until it does. Whether it’s a door left open, a thunderstorm, or a loud bang from fireworks, pets can bolt when they’re frightened or curious. And if they’re not prepared with ID and a plan, getting them back can be incredibly difficult.
That’s why Pet Preparedness Month is so important. It’s a time to make sure you’ve done everything possible to protect your pet before an emergency strikes.
Why Preparedness Matters
Every year, millions of pets go missing in the U.S. Many never make it home because they lack identification or their info is out of date. Collars can slip off or get snagged. Microchips are a reliable backup—as long as they’re registered with accurate contact details.
Preparedness also goes beyond lost pet scenarios. It means having an action plan for events like wildfires, floods, hurricanes, or sudden evacuations. Would you be ready to take your pet with you? Do you have supplies? Knowing the answers in advance can make all the difference.
It’s not just about the “what ifs.” Think about holiday weekends, travel plans, or even unexpected trips to the ER. Having your pet’s essentials ready to go saves time, reduces stress, and could make all the difference in a crisis.
Steps to Get Prepared
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Microchip your pet. It’s quick, permanent, and gives your pet a voice when they can’t speak for themselves. Just remember to keep your contact info updated in the registry.
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Use ID tags. Make sure your pet always wears a secure collar with a clearly readable phone number.
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Create a pet emergency kit. Pack food, water, bowls, medication, a leash or carrier, medical records, waste bags, and comfort items like a blanket or toy.
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Plan ahead. If you had to leave in a hurry, where would your pet go? Look up nearby pet-friendly hotels, boarding facilities, or shelters. Talk to friends or family members who could help.
Practice Makes Prepared
Run a practice drill to see how quickly you can gather your pet and their essentials. Make sure your pet is comfortable with their carrier or crate in case they need to travel suddenly. Train them to come when called and keep recent photos on hand in case you need to share them in a search.
You can even add a backup plan for times when you're not home, leave instructions and contact info with a trusted neighbor or pet sitter just in case.
How Pinnacle Can Help
At Pinnacle Veterinary Clinic, we offer microchipping and can scan your pet’s chip to confirm it’s active and linked to your current info. We’re also happy to help you prepare an emergency kit and ensure your pet’s medical records are up to date and easily accessible.
We know emergencies are stressful, but being prepared can make them a little less scary. Your pet depends on you, and we’re here to help you be ready for anything.
Call Pinnacle Veterinary Clinic today to make sure your pet is protected, identified, and prepared for anything life throws your way.