Karen works for the Red Cross of Northern New Jersey, so you knew it was just a matter of time before we broached the topic of Disaster Preparedness. Don't wait until it's too late: every rabbitry and pet owner should at least consider this topic. Being prepared is the only defense we have against disasters.

When considering what a "disaster" is, think outside the box--a barn/house fire is not the only disaster that can affect you. Flooding, hazardous material spillage, winter/summer weather, earthquake, you being hospitalized: are all disasters. Anything that can keep you from tending your rabbits for several days--or requiring immediate evacuation.

It is not the Red Cross' position to help your animals if you are affected by a disaster. While they will help if they can, you--the human--are their first and only worry. There are animal response non-profits out there, get to know them.

Here are some steps to help you be ready:

1) Identify as many disasters that can affect you as you can. In this consideration, include the disruption of services: water, electric, etc.
2) Create an animal evacuation kit: travel cages; water bottles and feed dishes. For rabbit breeders, do you have enough travel carriers for the number of animals that you have. If not, plan which animals can be left behind if it comes to that. (It's a hard truth--the breeders affected by Katrina only had time to grab a few animals, not all grabbed their herd buck causing irrevocable damage to their breeding programs)
3)  Very important: Your evacuation kit should also include your animal's paperwork: veterinary records, pedigrees, registrations and grand championship certificates. Keep a presigned letter with your evacuation materials releasing caretakers and first responders from liability if your rabbits are hurt in the evacuation. Also include a letter authorizing Vet care for your animals.
4) Create and practice the evacuation plan. Include where you're going to bring these animals too. You likely will not be able to keep them all with you if you're going into a shelter, is there breeder/friend/family members that can take them in the meantime?
5) If you live in an apartment, make sure management knows you have a pet.
6) Keep all vehicles maintained and filled with gas
7) Always have extra food and bottled water on hand. Keep in mind that water does have an expiration date. Beyond that date, bacteria invade the water and may cause digestive problems for your rabbits.
8) Consider an alternative caretaker for if you not at home (example, you become hospitalized); keep them educated on the proper care of your animals and keep their number on hand so that you or a first responder can easily call them. Ensure they have your Vet's phone number and address.
9) Consider if a disaster occurs and you are on vacation, make sure your plan is near evacuation supplies so that your caretaker can follow the plan.
10) Find a way to keep your animals easily identifiable. Pet owners, ask your breeders to tattoo your animals. Breeders, tattoo all of your animals.

Can you think of a step I didn't add--put it in the comments.