Responsible Pet Owners Month - How to Keep Your Pet Safe

Every February, we acknowledge National Responsible Pet Owners Month as a way to promote positive pet care. You should always be sure that your pet is healthy and happy by taking them to routine checkups and monitoring their overall health. In the event of a home emergency, it can be a challenge to keep your pet calm which may make you even more anxious during the event. To help prepare you and your pet, we’re sharing a few tips for how to keep them safe during home emergency events. 

What to do During a Fire

House fires can start in an instant and grow uncontrollably in very little time. Not to mention, fire and smoke are extremely life-threatening and can cause significant damage to your home. However, before worrying about any property damage, it’s important to immediately evacuate and get yourself, your family, and your pets to safety. One of the best ways to ensure your pet’s safety is to practice fire safety routines where you and your pet have a plan to exit your home quickly. Also be sure that your pet is trained to come when called by their name. Keep track of areas in the home where your pet likes to nap or spend their time. This will help you locate them in the event of an emergency. 

What to do During a Storm

Storms can be a significant source of anxiety for your pets, especially for those afraid of loud noises. During a heavy storm, it is a good idea to take shelter in interior rooms without windows. Be sure that your pet feels comfortable and safe in these areas of the house to reduce stress. You can also put on background noises such as the radio, tv, or white noise to distract from loud noises outside. In the unfortunate case that you need to evacuate due to hurricanes or flooding, know where your pet’s carrier and leash is in order to make a quick exit. 

Staying Prepared

One of the best ways to keep your pet safe during emergencies is to be prepared beforehand. When you know how to respond to a disaster event, you’ll be able to stay calm and can help keep your pet relaxed. Always keep an adequate supply of pet food and water, as well as other supplies such as flashlights and blankets. Make sure that your pet is also wearing a collar with identification tags and has been microchipped. 

As always, Rocky Top Restoration is here for you 24/7 for any of your home restoration needs. We know the importance of responding as quickly as possible because waiting can cost thousands of dollars in damage, or something worse. Once you ensure that your family and pets are safe, don’t hesitate to call us at (865) 440-7449 or contact us for any home emergency you have.