Smuckers
While Smuckers may not be famous (yet), her image IS owned by her family and unauthorized use is strongly discouraged. Thank you.

The
Chihuahua Chronicles

Although I know I can always expect the best,
it's smart to be:
Prepared for the Worst

What can Possibly Happen?

Not that I'm a 'fraidy cat or anything, but bad things do happen to good dogs and their families.

In Alaska, there are some unique situations which could be disasterous for my family, and for a little dog like me. Earthquakes, fire, floods, heavy snowfall, ice storms, extremely frigid weather, volcanoes, tsnumais, oil spills, or even terrorist attacks are some of the emergencies Alaskans might face.

What would we do if basic services -- water, food, gas/fuel, electricity or telephones - were cut off?

Some of my needs are specific, but many are the same as those of my family.

Water
A week's worth of water, properly stored, and a bowl for me to drink from are essential.

Food
Reserve a food supply to last a week, along with a spare feeding bowl. I'd be thrilled if there are a few treats included, since an emergency is as stressful for me as it is for my family and a treat is a reminder of easier times.

Identification
If I am not always wearing my collar and tags, put a spare away for me in my part of our family emergency kit. A dog harness as opposed to a collar is a good idea, as I'm likely to be nervous is a scary event has occurred and will be more secure in a harness than a collar alone. Include some pictures of me to show people if I am lost, and of us together, to identify you as mine when I am found. Keep a copy of my medical records and my vaccinations with our emergency supplies. If I am on medication, a spare supply of it will also be needed!

Secure Shelter
My plastic kennel crate is a place I know I am safe. I can sit and lie down comfortably in it, and it has small food and water dishes for me. I have soft bedding made of old flannel baby blankets and polar fleece for cushioning and warmth. If there's room, my wire/fence potty pen can expand to make a safe yard area for me. Ginger (who is a bit larger than me) would not mind her cable being hooked to a securely positioned stake, so that she has a little room to move also.

Sanitation and Waste Disposal
Some soap and disinfectant to keep my bowls and kennel crate clean are important. Plastic poopie bags and piddle pads or spare newspapers will help me keep my area (and yours) tidy.

Dog First Aid Kit

Some suggested items for a dog first aid kit include:

first aid book for dogs

elastic bandage (3" x 5")

absorbent gauze pads (4" x 4")

absorbent gauze roll (3" x 1 yard)

cotton tipped applicators (1 small box)

antiseptic wipes (1 package)

petroleum jelly (1 container)

tweezers and scissors

cold/heat pack

disposable latex gloves (several pairs)