Have you ever considered preparing your Miniature Schnauzer for a natural disaster? Nature is a powerful and unpredictable force, and everyone, regardless of where they live is at risk of some form of disaster. Therefore, just because you don’t happen to live in an earthquake or hurricane zone, doesn’t mean that disasters – whether created by nature or human folly – can’t or won’t strike.
Why? Because there are many disasters that threaten us and include:
- Earthquakes
- Tornados
- Hurricanes
- Fires
- Ice storms
- Wind storms
- Power failure
- Flash floods
- Mud slides
Since you can’t predict what will happen in the future, and there is no point living every day in fear that something awful will occur, you need to help calm your worries by setting up a disaster plan for your family and your Miniature Schnauzer.
Did you know that pets are not allowed inside emergency shelters that have been set up for people? The reason is because animals present a public heath and safety risk. Thus, it is a good idea for you to have some sort of plan for your Miniature Schnauzer, to try and keep him as safe as possible should a disaster ever occur.
The following are tips for you to keep in mind:
Tip 1 – Take pictures of your dog – Should your dog go missing during a disaster having recent pictures of your dog can help you find him. Keep pictures with your important insurance papers along with your dog’s vaccination records. When you take photos, make sure you focus on any characteristics that distinguish your dog as your own (IE birthmark, etc.)
Tip 2 – Food storage – Just as you need food storage for your family, you should also have a week supply stored for your Miniature Schnauzer. Store dry dog food in air tight and waterproof containers. If your dog eats wet food, make sure you store a significant supply of wet food cans that have flip tops. If not, make sure you also store a can opener. In addition, make sure that you store enough water for your dog. Note: the food you store for your dog should be the food he is used to eating.
Tip 3 – Have a buddy system with a neighbor – Make friends with a neighbor and ask them to check on your Miniature Schnazuer should a disaster happen and you are not home. Agree to do the same for the neighbor if they have pets. Be sure you exchange all the necessary information such as emergency numbers (IE. vet, phone number of a family member, etc.) You should also notify your vet that you authorize any emergency treatment your dog needs during a disaster if you cannot be reached. It’s best to leave a signed note confirming this in your dog’s file.
Tip 4 – Know all the local animal shelters – If your Miniature Schnauzer goes missing during a disaster you will be able to contact each of these shelters to see if he is there. Thus, make sure you write down all the necessary contact information in regards to these rescues and shelters.
Tip 5 – Comfort your pet – If you are with your Miniature Schnauzer during a disaster don’t let him out of your sight and be sure to comfort him. Just as you will be scared, so is your pet. Don’t force physical contact such as hugging your dog, until he is ready. Dogs can become exceptionally freaked out during a disaster. Therefore simply keep an eye on him and let him come to you.
Other important things to remember include:
- Keep an updated ID collar on your Miniature Schnauzer the includes your current address and phone number
- Always keep a leash in your vehicle incase you need to vacate the vehicle during a disaster.
- Keep a doggie first aid kit in your disaster kit. Your Vet may not be in business for a while. Therefore, if something happens to your dog, you need to provide him with the best possible care you can until he can get the attention he needs.
As you can see, there is much for you to think about when it comes to keeping your Miniature Schnauzer safe and healthy during a disaster. Create a plan in advance and don’t wait until disaster strikes to learn your lesson. Not being prepared could really mean disaster for your dog.
Miniature Schnauzer Training…
