Five Things to Do That Will Help Your Pet During A Disaster Or Emergency

VANCOUVER, BC, April 29, 2011

The recent tragic earthquake and tsunami in Japan has brought the idea of being prepared in case of emergency to the forefront of many people's minds. The Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team (CDART) wants people in British Columbia to understand that we live in a "when", not an "if" province and to know how important it is to prepare for the care of your pet in a disaster or emergency—as well as for yourself. Remember, if it is not safe for you to stay behind, it is not safe for your animals. You are their safety net.

• Each family member (two legged and four legged) needs a "grab-and-go bag" containing information, supplies and food for a week.

• Identify where the evacuation centres in your area are and ask what has been put into place for your pets. (Many communities have an Emergency Pet Services group.)

• Identification such as microchips, collars and tags should be worn at all times.

• Along with photos of each member of your family, have a current picture of your pet(s) in your grab-and-go bag. (If lost, this photo can aid in identifying them and helping to search for them.)

• Start a buddy system in your community in case of emergency.

Heather Ferguson from CDART will speak on Disaster Preparedness for Your Animals at The Petnership Project Holistic Wellness Pet Show. Located at the Hellenic Community Centre (at 4500 Arbutus Street in Vancouver) on April 30 and May 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, The Petnership Project focuses on the body, mind and spirit of our pets. Admission is $11 per day for all online advanced ticket purchases (at http://www.petnerships.com) and $16 per day at the door. Admission is free to children under 12 and seniors 65 and over. This groundbreaking public event features a combination of trade show exhibitors and lectures.

Sponsors for The Petnership Project Holistic Wellness Pet Show include KVOS TV, News1130, Postmedia Network, and True Carnivores.

Petnerships.com, producer of The Petnership Project, is an online destination for alternative and progressive pet information. Petnerships' goal is to provide as much information as possible so each person can make informed choices about giving their companion animal the healthiest and best life possible. For more information, please visit http://www.petnerships.com.

For more information or an interview with Petnerships or Heather Ferguson, please contact Paul Holman at paul@ahacreative.com or at 604.303.1052