Media Release

Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau

Public Information Officer Kevin Sur
217-557-4756 / Kevin.Sur@Illinois.gov

June 6, 2023

Fur real…Treats, Toys, and Papers are part of your

Purrrrrfect kit for Pet Preparedness Month
Springfield – June is Pet Preparedness Month and the Illinois Emergency Management
Agency and Office of Homeland Security reminds you that a backpack with a few pet
preparedness items could make all the difference with safety and comfort in a disaster for your
favorite family pets.
“During Pet Preparedness Month, I challenge families to gather pet preparedness items,” said
Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-
OHS) Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “Preparing now will greatly benefit your pets especially
during a flood, tornado, or other severe weather.”
During an emergency, a well-organized family evacuation plan with your family pet is important
to ensure safety for everyone. Do not leave your pets behind. If you are not home, you should
have a plan in place for a neighbor, relative, or a trusted friend to care for your pets with your
preparedness kits until you can reunite at a safe location.
Some items for your pet preparedness kit include:

• Non-perishable food and favorite pet treats

• Water and water bowls
• Waste bags, cat litter, and pan
• Blanket/bedding and favorite pet toys
• Leashes, harnesses, or carriers
• Pet medications and a first-aid kit
• Copies of medical records including vaccination records and pet identification
Most shelters or other emergency centers cannot accept pets because of health and safety
concerns, so it is crucial that you plan ahead for your pets’ care.
More tips on pet preparedness information can be found here:
https://www2.illinois.gov/ready/plan/Pages/Animals.aspx

Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS):

www.Ready.Illinois.gov

IEMA-OHS Twitter | IEMA-OHS Meta | IEMA-OHS Instagram | IEMA-OHS YouTube

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