Health & Fitness
Animal Rescue League Offering Emergency Backpacks for Pets
Bags available with $40 donation on May 10 in honor of National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day
On Saturday, May 10, pet owners will receive a pet emergency backpack with a $40 donation to the Animal Rescue League of Boston's South End shelter in honor of National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day. ARL emergency backpacks come stocked with critical survival items including extended shelf-life water and food for dogs or cats, leash, collar, safety blanket, portable bowl, toys, and more.As parts of the U.S. battle floods, tornadoes, and wild fires, the ARL encourages Massachusetts pet owners to plan ahead for a sudden evacuation.
“If you have a pet, part of your emergency planning should include how you will shelter and care for your animal,” explains Brian O’Connor, manager of rescue services at the ARL. “Getting a pet emergency bag ready to go in case you need to evacuate due to flooding or loss of electricity during a storm or other disaster is a very important part of disaster preparedness.”
In addition to an emergency bag, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends:
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- Getting a sturdy and comfy crate or carrier to transport your pet
- Finding a shelter alternative that works for both you and your pet
- Having a picture of you and your pet together in case you get separated during an emergency
“Having a recent picture of you and your pet not only helps others assist you in finding your pet, but it also documents ownership,” says O’Connor.
Download our pet emergency packing list flyer: http://bit.ly/arlpreparedpets
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Photo Contest!
To inspire picture-taking, through May 10, pet owners can share a photo of themselves with their pet on Instagram (follow us @arlboston) using hashtag #arlluvpets to enter to win a pet emergency backpack. We’ll announce the winner on Monday, May 12 on our Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!
The ARL pet emergency backpacks are available with a donation on May 10 while supplies last, so stop in on Saturday to pick one up for your pet!