- Members of an Indiana family were able to rescue their dog moments before a tornado destroyed their backyard
- New York City office of Emergency Management recommends pets be included in emergency planning
- Prep your pet for a safe evacuation with the use of a ‘Go Bag', which includes vaccination records and more
A family is thanking their lucky stars after a harrowing rescue of their beloved pet.
Video shows the moments before a tornado ripped through the backyard of an Indiana family's home, toward a kennel where they kept their dog.
Luckily, two members of the family were able to rescue the dog just in time.
Strong winds and rain whipped through the backyard as the two people rushed to rescue their pup. Moments after they got inside, the storm ripped through the yard and destroyed the dog's kennel, doorbell camera video shows.
Footage shows the tornado's strong winds easily ripping apart a trampoline and shed as if they were made of paper, strewing debris about the yard.
Keep pets safe and ready for extreme weather with these tips
According to the New York City office of Emergency Management (NYCEM), pets should be included in your family's emergency planning process. “A few simple steps to ensure your pet's safety can go a long way when disaster strikes.”
Read on for tips from NYCEM on keeping pets safe and ready for emergencies.
Make a plan and prep a ‘Go Bag' for your pet
- Make a “Go Bag” for your pet, this can include identification materials, immunization records, food, water and dishes for at least three days, a muzzle and a leash, comforting toys and treats, litter and a litter pan and scoop and/or plastic bags for clean up, etc. A full list of what to include is available on the NYCEM website.
- “Record important information about your pet so that you can easily access it during an emergency,” the NYCEM website says. “Before an emergency, make a list of emergency contacts. Keep a copy of this list in your pet's Go Bag.”
- Make sure your pet wears a collar or harness, and have rabies and identification tags accessible at all times. (ID tags should include your name, address and contact information.) Dogs should wear a license tag. A properly-registered microchip can mean all the difference if you get separated from your pet. Keep a recent color photo of your pet handy in the event you and your pet are separated.
- Develop a plan for your pet should you have to evacuate your home. Do you bring your pet with you? Will you need to entrust your pet's care with someone else you trust? This could involve arranging for family and friends to take care of your pet while you evacuate, or seeking out a pet-friendly hotel or shelter. It may also be possible to discuss emergency boarding options with your pet's veterinarian, kennel or groomer.
- “Know your pet's hiding places so you can easily find it during an emergency.” Stressed pets may seek shelter on their own if they feel threatened, or try to flee.
- When it comes to evacuating via public transit: Pets in carriers are always allowed on Metropolitan Transit Authority subways, buses and trains, but when an evacuation order is declared, pets too large for carriers are allowed (provided the pets are properly muzzled and controlled on a “sturdy leash no longer than four feet.) Look for an announcement from New York City officials when and if this is allowed. Service animals are permitted on all MTA modes of transit and facilities.
Learn more ways to prep your furry family member for an emergency at nyc.gov/site/em/ready/pets.page.
Contributing: USA TODAY
