You may be stepping up your security game, and, especially if you’re single or have kiddos, adding a dog to the mix might’ve crossed your mind. They’re amazing companions, offering protection, emotional support, and even some practical help when the going gets tough—but it’s crucial to see how a dog fits into your emergency plans, lifestyle, and budget. This guide will dive into the essentials of prepping with dogs, helping you decide if a dog is right for you.
Are You Ready for a Dog?
I am passionate about people getting a dog – or any pet, for that matter – only if they truly want one, and will take good care of it. Here are some questions to ask if you are considering getting a dog:
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Why do I want a dog? Whether for security, companionship, or both, it should come from wanting a genuine attachment to a living creature that will be totally devoted and dependent on you.
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Do I have the time? Feeding them, taking them to the vet if sick or receiving their yearly shots, letting them out, or taking them out. You have to clean up after them whether it’s poo duty or if they vomit (fun times). Time to bathe them or take them to the groomers. They must always have fresh water available. Since puppies must be trained, add time to teach them how to potty outside and basic commands.
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Who will take care of it? Every kid wants a dog, and then Mom ends up taking care of it and doing everything. If you don’t want a dog, don’t let your kids talk you into getting one, especially if you know there is a good chance they will tire of the responsibility.
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Do I have the patience to deal with a puppy? If you are impatient or don’t have time for training, you may be better off with a dog old enough to have been trained in the basics instead of a puppy.
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Can I fit one into my busy life? If your schedule is insane, the kids have several after-school activities, and everyone is rarely home, a dog may not be a fit. They need to interact and have contact with their humans. If you must have a pet, you may be better off with a cat, which often requires less human interaction…but provides zero security.
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Can I afford it? The yearly cost for one dog for vet visits can be as high as $1,500, not including the cost of food, grooming, and any random fees for boarding or other services. You may be otherwise ready to have and care for a dog, but if you are on the brink financially, consider the above figures.
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Can I control it? You must choose your dog breed CAREFULLY. Certain breeds require a strong owner who is not intimidated, or they will dominate and intimidate you. If you want a strong protective breed that can weigh as much – or more – than you, you need to be a confident boss who understands its needs thoroughly and is involved in every aspect of its training. This is ESPECIALLY true if you have kids. Even a small dog can cause physical harm, so this is NOT a decision to make lightly or impulsively!
Dog Emergency Preparedness
You’ve checked the above, and you have decided that yes, you are ready to get a dog. Excellent! But aside from basic ownership, understanding how to effectively incorporate your dog into your emergency preparedness plan is vital. Dogs bring numerous benefits during crises, but they also present unique challenges. Here’s an in-depth look at how dogs fit into emergency scenarios.
Benefits of Dogs in Emergencies
Including dogs in your emergency plan can seriously change the game. Dogs offer companionship that’s absolutely priceless during those long stretches of isolation. But they do more than keep you company—they help maintain normalcy when life gets tough. They also encourage a sense of responsibility and routine, which is key when chaos hits. Their presence can ease anxiety for everyone, from kids to adults. But there’s more:
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Besides emotional support, dogs can give practical help too. With proper training, they can assist in emergencies by finding and carrying items or alerting you to danger. Their keen senses are perfect for spotting threats or locating people.
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Many dog owners have incredible stories about their dogs being real heroes in a crisis. For example, dogs have given families early warnings of fires or severe weather, allowing for timely evacuations. Some dogs have even sought out help for injured or trapped owners. Stories from users on Reddit’s prepper community highlight these amazing skills.
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Dogs can add to your safety as well. Their sharp hearing and smell make them excellent early warning systems. They can clue you in on approaching strangers or environmental changes, boosting your sense of security. In a physical attack or break-in, a dog can protect you by stopping the intruder or giving you and your family a chance to escape.
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In survival planning, dogs can also tackle practical tasks. For instance, they can be trained to carry supplies or assist in search and rescue efforts. The Los Angeles County’s Pet Emergency Guide provides insights into preparing dogs for these types of roles.
Challenges of Dogs in Emergencies
While dogs are beneficial, they also introduce challenges in emergency situations.
Dogs can also limit your mobility. Evacuating quickly becomes more complicated when you have to account for a pet. Some shelters may not accept animals, limiting your options for refuge. Ensuring your dog is welcome in shelters or having a place or trusted person to keep them is critical – please do not plan just to abandon your pet! Read my tips about this here.
Moreover, resource allocation becomes an issue. You’ll need to ensure you have enough food, water, and medical supplies for your dog. This can be a significant burden during emergencies when supplies are already scarce.
Dogs may also experience stress during emergencies, which can lead to unexpected behavior. It’s essential to have a plan to calm and manage your dog’s anxiety. Developing a strategy for these scenarios can be informed by resources like the American Veterinary Medical Association’s guide.
Understanding these challenges is crucial, as highlighted in this detailed study on pets in disaster scenarios.
Survival Planning for Dog Owners
For dog owners, survival planning requires special considerations. From gear to training, ensuring your dog is prepared is as important as your own preparedness.
Essential Gear for Preparedness
As more people become interested in survival planning with pets, ensure your dog is ready for an emergency, you need to assemble a comprehensive kit. Here are the essentials:
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Food and Water: At least a week’s supply, including collapsible bowls.
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Leash and Collar: A sturdy, comfortable set with ID tags.
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First Aid Kit: Tailored to canine needs, including vet-prescribed medications.
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Comfort Items: A favorite blanket or toy to help reduce stress.
Additionally, consider a portable crate or carrier for easy transportation. These are crucial for quick evacuations when mobility is limited. Checklists like those from the AVMA can help ensure you don’t miss any essentials.
Training Your Dog for Emergencies
Training your dog for emergencies is a proactive way to enhance their adaptability. Focus on the following areas:
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Basic Obedience: Commands like sit, stay, and come are foundational.
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Desensitization: Gradually introduce them to loud noises and unfamiliar environments.
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Socialization: Expose them to different people and pets to reduce anxiety in crowded situations.
Case studies show that well-trained dogs cope better during emergencies. For instance, dogs accustomed to car travel are less stressed during evacuations. Training should be ongoing and adapted to your dog’s needs, as recommended by pet preparedness resources.
By considering these factors, you’ll be better prepared to integrate your dog into your survival plans effectively.
