Creating Your Pet Plan

St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center and the Humane Rescue Alliance are urging the community to have an emergency preparedness plan in place for your pets and to complete a pet information sheet in the wake of COVID-19.

World Series champion Max Scherzer, Humane Rescue Alliance board member Erica Scherzer, and Sen. Elizabeth Dole are all lending a hand to promote pet preparedness and safety. Once you've made a plan, share on social media and encourage others to do the same using the hashtag #PlanforPets. 

🙋 Identify Multiple Caregivers

If you are hospitalized, who will take care of your pet? The best place for your pet, even if you are sick, is with you in your home. However, you may become too ill to care for your pet. Contact neighbors, family, friends, pet-sitters and boarding facilities you trust to help take care of your pet. 

Pet Information Sheet (download fillable PDF)

📞 Talk Through Your Plan

Once you come up with multiple plans to care for your pet, it’s important to speak with caregivers so they’re prepared should they be called to action. The most ideal situation for you and your pets is for them to remain in the temporary care of a trusted caregiver and out of an animal shelter.

🐾 Prepare Pet Supplies

It may not seem necessary today, but having proper supplies and information in place in advance is critical if you find yourself in an emergency situation. Your kit should include:

  • Name and contact information for the person who can care for your pets

  • Name and contact information for your back-up in case your go-to is no longer able to help

  • Food, treats, a leash, toys and any other supplies necessary to care for your pet for at least two weeks

  • A crate or carrier to transport your pet

  • Vaccination records

  • Collar with ID tags (don’t forget to make sure their microchip information is up to date)

  • Medications and prescriptions, along with instructions

  • Daily care instructions

  • Veterinarian's contact information

📉 Know the Facts

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there is no evidence that people can get COVID-19 from pets. The best place for your animal is inside the home they know and love. If you aren’t feeling well but are still able to provide care for your pet, please keep them at home with you where they’re most comfortable.

You’ll feel better knowing they’re in good hands no matter what challenges may arise. In addition, keeping area animal shelters free of long-term care animals allows them to be better prepared for the onset of kitten season, stray pets, and animal care cases that require immediate attention.

For more info, please visit www.cdc.gov