DIGITAL RECORDS
A thumb drive including the above pics and scans of all the documents in your folder is an excellent thing to keep on your keychain, in your glovebox and at a neighbor’s home. Having your records at your fingertips makes the unexpected much easier to deal with.
SUPPLIES, INCLUDING MEDICATION
To avoid confusion, never store a pet’s medication with your own. Establish a secure home for all your pet’s special need items, including medication, toothpaste, flea and tick repellents, shampoo and grooming tools.
SCHEDULING
Schedule reminders on your calendar when vaccines and annual check-ups are due. Don’t waste time and money by forgetting an essential vaccine or appointment.
TOYS
Establish a low basket or other container on the floor or low shelf for all the toys to live in. Your pets will know where to find what they’re looking for and you’ll only have one place to return everything when it’s time for bed.
CLOTHING
If you have clothes to help keep your pet warm in winter months, you need a home for them that ISN’T the toy basket. These things should be in a drawer, bin or on a hanger out of reach to anything with more than two legs.
Breakaway collars are useful for any pet so they don’t accidentally choke himself/herself. They are designed so that the clasp opens if the animal gets caught on something. They are especially helpful for outdoor cats or those who tend to climb.
FOOD
A sealed container in your pantry will keep pets out and their food handy. If you don’t go through dry food rapidly, store it in the bag it came in, inside an airtight container. Otherwise it can get rancid and spoil new food it’s combined with. Use glass and metal containers rather than plastic—they can leech.
The kitchen is often warm and moist, so it’s not the best place to store food. Dry food is best when used within 6 weeks.
Open canned food will spoil after 3 days in the refrigerator. Store unopened canned food in your pantry or a cool place, and regardless of how cheap it is, do not buy dry food if the bag is torn.
FEEDING
Everyone likes to eat when they’re hungry and when they expect it. So it’s best to feed your pets on a schedule.
WALKING SUPPLIES
Leashes and any collars should be near the exit to your home. Likewise poop bags. A fanny pack or shoulder bag stocked with treats, poop bags, and a portable water bowl.
LOST PETS
Include the contact information for local shelters and animal control in your address book.Even indoor pets should have a collar with current identification.
A little preparation upfront ensures your happiness and the safety and well-being of your pet as well!
For more information about Chief Organizing Expert Andrew Mellen, please see his press kit here.