#HillsPet Disaster Relief Network is Helping Pets During Emergencies

Today, I wanted to talk a little bit about emergency preparedness for pet parents and their animal companions. Many pet parents are prepared in case a disaster or emergency were to strike, but there are still so many that are not ready for these types of horrible situations. Natural disasters can happen at any time and without any warning.

A new Disaster Relief Network for pets was recently formed by Hill's Pet Nutrition. The network is one of a kind and works through the Hill's Food, Shelter, and Love program. 

The Hill's Food, Shelter, and Love Program

The Disaster Relief Network was launched through Hill's Food, Shelter, and Love program which was founded in 2002. Here's a little bit more about the Hill's Food, Shelter, and Love program and some of the things that they have done for homeless pets to date: 

• Since 2002, the Hill's Food, Shelter, and Love program has donated over $240 million worth of Science Diet® brand foods to nearly 1,000 animal shelters nationwide.
• The program has helped more than 7 million pets find new homes and continues to do so today. 
• It helps to feed over 100,000 homeless pets every day. 

The Hill's Food, Shelter, and Love program doesn't stop there. The goal of the program is to provide superior nutrition to homeless pets that will make them happy and healthy while they wait for their forever homes. Healthy pets are more likely to get adopted into loving homes, which is one of the things that the program strives for. 

Hill's Disaster Relief Network Helps Pets During Emergencies

Food donated by Hill's during Hurricane Isaac in 2012.
Photo courtesy of Hill's Pet Nutrition. 

It's unfortunate, but disasters happen all the time. Floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, earthquakes just to name a few. Not only are humans largely affected by these horrible events, but pets as well. 

This Disaster Relief Network is a US-wide network of shelters that coordinate emergency pet food deliveries. It is the first network of its kind. Hill's also advises pet parents to be prepared for emergencies themselves. Here are some tips from Hill's Pet Nutrition so that you and your pets can be ready in case of an emergency:

• Ensure your pet can be identified by either a microchip or collar ID tag, with updated contact information.
• Prepare an emergency box of pet supplies that is readily accessible in the event of an evacuation. Emergency kits should include: 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 veterinarian’s contact information.
• 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 able to shelter pets. Scout hotels/motels with pet friendly policies and ask relatives or friends if they could house you and/or your pet.
• If you need to evacuate, consider taking a pet carrier or crate if possible for transport and safe-keeping.
• Carry a good picture of your pet with you in the event of separation during evacuation. Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house because pets may hide if they are scared. Finding them quickly will help you evacuate faster.

You can read more about the Hill's Disaster Relief Network here. 

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Hill’s. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about Hill’s Disaster Relief Network, but Pawsitively Pets only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. is not responsible for the content of this article.