Evacuating with pets

Evacuating with animals rarely fails because of food but because of obstacles that cost time: an animal that hides, a carrier stuck in the basement behind boxes, accommodation that does not take animals. Each of these hurdles can be removed calmly before anything happens. If you have done that, you can leave within minutes when a warning comes.

Many animals sense people's agitation and react by withdrawing or fleeing. Cats in particular like to hide under stress. So the rule is: when a warning comes, bring the animals inside first and get the carrier ready – even before you pack yourself.

Carrier and lead training is the most important preparation. Leave the carrier permanently open in the home, put a blanket inside and occasionally give a treat in it. That turns it from the “vet box” into a familiar retreat. Dogs should be used to lead and harness and able to walk calmly even in unfamiliar surroundings.

Identification must be current. A collar with a phone number helps immediately, and a microchip helps if the collar is lost – but only if the registration has your current phone number. A recent photo showing you together with the animal can serve as proof that it belongs to you.

The pet emergency kit holds food and water for several days, bowls, any medication, the vaccination record, a lead, poo bags or cat litter with a tray, a familiar blanket and the vet practice's contact details. It sits near the carrier so both can be grabbed together.

Public emergency shelters do not always take animals; the rules differ by region. So make a list beforehand of options outside the danger area: friends, relatives, boarding kennels or catteries, hotels that allow animals. Ask your municipality how animals are taken into account in evacuations there.

What if nobody is home when the warning comes? Agree with neighbours that they can take the animals in an emergency. They need a key, must know where the carrier and kit are and have your number. A sticker at the entrance can alert responders to animals in the home – but it must be up to date, or someone will search in vain.

Never return to a closed area against the authorities' instructions to fetch animals. Instead, tell the authorities, animal welfare organisations or responders where the animal is. This rule protects you and also the responders, who would otherwise have to rescue you.

Stressed animals can bite, scratch or flee, even if they are usually gentle. Keep them on a lead or in the carrier in unfamiliar surroundings. And if there is truly no other way and an animal has to stay behind: never tied up or locked in, because then it cannot save itself in a flood or fire. The best way to prevent this situation is to leave early.

Horses and livestock need their own planning: transport, destinations and considerably more lead time. This cannot be organised in an acute situation and should be discussed early with the stable, the vet and the authorities.

If you move with an animal across borders or to other regions, special rules may apply, for example on vaccinations or animal diseases. These vary widely; the responsible authorities and your vet practice can give information.