Even as hurricane season inches closer to an end, emergency veterinarians warn that disasters can strike without warning, and preparation can make all the difference for pet owners.

Recent flooding in downtown St. Augustine demonstrated how quickly life can turn upside down, and for pet owners, such emergencies can add another layer of complexity to an already stressful situation.

“The most common emergency is not taking time ahead of time to be prepared,” said Dr. Sarah Nelle Timberlake, an emergency veterinarian at VEG ER on Town Center Parkway.

Timberlake emphasizes that a pet-friendly survival kit is crucial. The kit should include: • Updated microchip information and current pet identification • Go-bag containing 1-2 weeks of food, water and medications • Hard copies of vacci

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