2016-05-02

This post is sponsored by Hill’s Food, Shelter, & Love® Initiative and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping Promote National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day, but we only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. is not responsible for the content of this article.



As unfortunate as it is, emergencies happen all the time and usually when we least expect it. Properly preparing your family can mean all the difference when disaster strikes. Because family means more than just us humans, it is important that we have a plan in place for our pets as well. So in honor of the upcoming FEMA National Pet Disaster Preparedness Day on May 14, I am excited to share with you a very important initiative that has changed the way we care for furry loved ones - the Hill's Food, Shelter & Love Program!



Photo courtesy of Hill's® Pet Nutrition, Inc

For over 75 years, it has been Hill's mission to help enrich and lengthen the loving relationship between people and their pets. Covering everything from the right nutrition, to preparing for a disaster or emergency, Hill's is dedicated to ensuring your family can have many happy and healthy years with your pet! In the event a disaster does occur, the Hill's Disaster Relief Network is ready to help at a moment's notice by quickly responding with shipments of pet food to communities impacted. In the last three years alone, the Hill’s network has delivered free pet food to more than 60 different shelters and veterinary clinics across the country in response to 25 major incidents!



Photo courtesy of Hill's® Pet Nutrition, Inc

As a basic guide, the Hill's Disaster Relief Network recommends these Seven Tips to Ensure Your Pet’s Safety in an Emergency:

Ensure your pet can be identified by either a microchip or collar ID tag and that contact information is up - to - date.

Prepare a “Pet Emergency Go - Kit” of pet supplies that is readily accessible in an emergency. Your Pet Go - Kit should include the following: first aid supplies and guide book; a 3 - day supply of pet food in a waterproof container and bottled water; a safety harness and leash; waste clean - up supplies; medications and medical records; a contact list of veterinarian and pet care organizations; information on your pet’s feeding routine and any behavioral issues; comfort toys; and a blanket.

Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or window to let first responders know there is a pet in the house. Include your veterinarian’s contact information.

Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house when they are frightened. Finding them quickly will help you evacuate faster.

Identify a location to take your pet if you need to leave your immediate area. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people may not be open to pets. Scout hotels and motels with pet - friendly policies and ask relatives or friends if they could house you and your pet.

Carry a picture of your pet in the event of separation.

If you need to evacuate, consider taking a pet carrier or crate if possible for transport and safe - keeping.

Is your family properly prepared to care for your pet(s) in an emergency? Check out this easy-to-read emergency kit checklist for more items to make sure you have everything you need!

Photo courtesy of Hill's® Pet Nutrition, Inc

The Hill's Food, Shelter & Love® program is based on four pillars: Volunteer, Donate, Choose and Adopt. Hill’s Food, Shelter & Love® program has already provided over $280 million worth of food to nearly 1,000 shelters, 365 days a year helping over 8 million pets find a new home! For more information about the Hill's Food, Shelter & Love Program, please feel free to visit their website. You can also stay current by following them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Hill’s® Pet Nutrition, Inc. The opinions and text are all mine.

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