Emergencies often strike without warning. A sudden storm can knock out power. A house fire can spread throughout your home. An apartment on the bottom level of a building can flood. When disaster strikes, our pets depend on us for protection. Your veterinarian plays a role in keeping your pets prepared and safe. PetNest Animal Hospital takes your pet’s health and safety seriously and wants you to be ready to care for your pet in unexpected situations.
Why Veterinary Care and Preparation Go Hand in Hand
When disaster strikes, pets with up-to-date medical care and records are at a much lower risk of complications. Veterinary care provides:
- Current vaccinations, which may be required by boarding facilities or shelters and protects pets from disease if they run away
- Preventive treatments (like flea, tick, and heartworm protection) to avoid added health risks
- Updated health records that can be quickly accessed during emergencies
How Your Veterinarian Readies Pets Before a Disaster
Health Screenings
Regular checkups are a chance for veterinarians to check that pets are healthy enough to handle stressful situations. Any underlying conditions can be identified and managed ahead of time.
Microchipping and Identification
Your veterinarian can microchip your pet, increasing the chance of reunion if you’re separated during an emergency.
Guidance on Emergency Kits
Vets can recommend medications, first aid supplies, and even special diets that should be included in your pet’s emergency kit. Pets with chronic health conditions may need customized plans.
Spay and Neuter
If your pet gets separated during an emergency, they may end up with other animals that are on the streets. Spaying or neutering your pet prevents pregnancy from occurring.
When Your Pet is Recovering from a Disaster
After the immediate danger passes, pets may need veterinary care. If your pet has been in a fire, they may develop respiratory problems from smoke or dust inhalation. Injuries may have been sustained during evacuation or debris exposure, which require veterinary treatment. Stress-related behaviors such as hiding, aggression, or loss of appetite can occur after a crisis. Consultation with a veterinarian is a good first step towards managing your pet’s behaviors. Should the worst happen, veterinary clinics are able to discuss end-of-life decisions and perform humane euthanasia.
A veterinarian is a partner in the care of your pet. When your animal companion experiences a disaster like a house fire or an unexpected accident, your veterinary team cares about the recovery of your pet and getting them back to a feeling of normalcy.
Get Your Pet Disaster-Ready with Veterinary Care in Frisco, TX
Disaster preparedness is about making sure your pet is healthy, protected, and supported through an emergency. By partnering with your veterinarian, you can give your pet the best chance to weather unexpected events safely. PetNest Animal Hospital has preventive and urgent care for pets in Frisco and from Plano, Little Elm, and The Colony areas. Ready to make veterinary care part of your pet’s emergency plan? Contact us to schedule a veterinary exam.