As I am sitting here working on my blogs with the TV on, the news just alerted us that there’s another winter storm warning with potential power outages due to ice and strong winds. I am thinking about what I would do should the power go down. When the temperature is a high of 19 degrees, you now it’s only going to get colder at night. Having lived in a city where winter hits on a regular basis I am always prepared to evacuate my home should the need arise. But am I really prepared? I know where I will go for the night (hotel) and what to bring but more importantly, am I prepared to bring my dog along with me?
The answer right now is no. But I will be after I post this blog. Just like we have our list of things to do and bring in case of an emergency, there should also be a list for our dogs (and any pets in our home.) It’s important to have items prepared for yourself and your pets should you need to leave the house quickly.
I will have a bag in my pantry with the following: Several cans of dog food. Check the expiration date periodically. Be sure to throw a few lids and if the cans aren’t self-opening, pack a can opener.
Kibble: have an extra bag on hand. Again, check the expiration date periodically.
If your dog is like mine and requires a lot of medication, have a list taped to the outside of the bag. That way, you can see what you need to throw in the bag before evacuating.
Bag of treats, a toy, extra leash, a bowl for food and water and a fleece jacket or blanket.
I know it sounds like a lot, and it is, that’s why you need to be prepared ahead of time so that when the power goes out, your and your dogs things are packed and ready to go.