How to Intervene with Animals During an Earthquake?

Earthquakes are extremely dangerous because they are natural disasters that occur suddenly without any prior warning. Moreover, even if no physical damage occurs due to the earthquake, severe tremors seriously affect pets.

Although earthquakes are unpredictable disasters, if you live in an earthquake zone, you can minimize the risks that an earthquake may pose to you and your pet by being prepared in advance. There are many things to do both during and after an earthquake. Knowing these things means being seriously prepared for a possible earthquake.

Drop - Cover - Hold On

One of the frequently repeated warnings before air travel is to first take the necessary precautions for yourself in a possible emergency, and then help those around you if needed. The same applies to earthquakes. The moment you feel the shaking, you should crouch down as much as possible. You can do this next to a heavy object that won't easily tip over, or under a table supported by chairs and whose stability you are sure of. If your pet is not within reach, you should not try to reach it.

If you are out walking with your dog or cat when an earthquake strikes, your pet may try to escape by its leash and break free from your grasp. You should try to hold it during this time, but if the leash breaks free, you should not chase after it. Your pet will look for a suitable shelter during the shaking.

If you and your pet are in a safe place, simply wait for the shaking to stop. If your pet tries to run away, do not force it too much. Because they are very scared, they may scratch or bite you. If they run away from you, they will try to find the safest place for themselves.

Protecting Yourself and Your Pet

If your pet is small and not trying to run away during an earthquake, you can curl up on top of it in a fetal position. During this time, make sure you protect your head and neck. When the shaking stops, your animal may want to run away. If possible, put a leash on it. Debris or broken glass on the ground can cause injury to your pet. If your dog or cat has run to a different part of the house, do not force it to move. Even though the earthquake has ended, there is still a risk of aftershocks.

There is a common belief that pets can sense earthquakes before they occur. Although earthquakes happen suddenly, it is thought that dogs and cats can hear much higher frequencies than us, so they may be able to sense small noises and tremors that we cannot detect. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this. Therefore, it is not possible to say anything definitive on this subject.

Earthquake Preparedness

If you live in an earthquake zone, you should definitely have an earthquake kit prepared. This kit, which will be vital in an emergency, contains various things you can include for your pet. Some treats or plant-based sedatives will help your pet calm down after an earthquake. An extra leash that doesn't take up much space will also keep your pet safe if you can't reach their leash during an earthquake. If your pet regularly takes any medications, an extra bottle of water, and some dry food can help you manage the situation after an earthquake. After an Earthquake After the shaking stops, it is extremely important to get out of the enclosed area. Even if there is no visible damage to the house, strong aftershocks can cause severe damage to the building. When going outside, it would be good for both you and your dog or cat to take their leash or even a carrier bag, if possible. Since it will be crowded outside and street animals will also be frightened, your pet may try to run away in fear. The easiest way to prevent this is to take their leash or carrier bag.

After the Earthquake

It is extremely important to get out of enclosed spaces after the shaking stops. Even if there is no visible damage to the house, strong aftershocks can cause severe damage to the building. When going outside, it is good for both you and your dog or cat to take their leash, or even a carrier, if possible. Since it will be crowded outside and street animals will also be frightened, your pet may try to run away in fear. The easiest way to prevent this is to take their leash or carrier.