Keeping your pet safe during the emergency

What to expect in an emergency situation

During an emergency incident, the emergency services such as Police or Scottish Fire and Rescue may require an evacuation of your home. In the event of this, you will need to consider the wellbeing and the requirements of your pet(s).

Evacuation

If you are evacuated from your home, you may want to consider staying with friends or relatives. If this is not possible an emergency centre may be open nearby.

An emergency centre is a venue such as a community building usually run by the Council. It can provide short term shelter, warmth, food and refreshment. Emergency centres will have a limited capacity to house pets, due to the lack of on-site facilities, but every effort will be made to accommodate evacuees and their pets.

Other options may include: a hotel or motel that takes pets or some sort of boarding facility, such as a kennel or veterinary hospital that is near an evacuation facility or your family's meeting place. Find out before an emergency happens if any of these facilities in your area might be viable options for you and your pets.

Pets in Situ

In an emergency it may not be possible or advisable for owners to take some pets with them. Some animals may be left at home for a period of time, where the environment or their accommodation is suitable and considered safe.

Remember to leave sufficient food and water to cater for the needs of the animal. Under no circumstances should pets be tied up or have unnecessary restricted movement when left at home, as this may place them in a stressful situation or danger.

If you do leave your pet in situ it is advisable to leave a note in the window to inform Emergency Responders.

Checklist

• Pet Food
• Bowls for food and water
• Pet carrier/ cage
• Medication
• Collar with ID tag, harness or lead if applicable
• Pet papers if applicable/vaccination certificates
• Pet bedding and toys

Remember

Animals rely on your protection for their wellbeing. In an emergency situation, they need you to ensure their safety. However, never put your own or another human life in danger to save an animal.