What should veterinary practices have in place regarding disaster preparedness?

Veterinary practices should prioritize having an emergency plan outlining safety measures as a crucial element of disaster preparedness. Such a plan is essential for ensuring the safety of both animals and staff during unforeseen events, including natural disasters, fires, or other emergencies. It should address specific procedures for evacuation, shelter, communication, and care for patients in stressful situations.

An effective emergency plan goes beyond merely having a list of emergency contacts or a training manual. While those components are valuable, they alone do not constitute a comprehensive strategy for disaster management. A detailed client follow-up schedule, while important for maintaining client relationships and continuity of care, is not relevant in the context of immediate disaster preparedness. Overall, the emergency plan should be the foundational element from which all other safety measures and protocols are developed, ensuring a systematic approach to handling potential crises in the veterinary practice.