The news from the flooded midwest, as well as the story of former Olympian Phyllis Dawson losing her barn (but luckily no horses or people) to a lightening strike reminds us that you can never be too prepared for the unexpected. The American Association of Equine Practitioners notes in this month's Ask the Vet column that you should be able to maintain horses and people for a minimum of 48 hours in the event of an evacuation. That means enough hay, grain and water for that time period, as well as other items of horse husbandry, such as blankets, wraps, and a first aid kit. And, teaching your horse to load no matter what, takes on even more importance during a quick evacuation.  

Follow these steps to make sure you're as prepared as possible for whatever may happen: Fire, tornado, flood or the unknown.

1) Make an emergency plan for each type of disaster that could occur on your property.

2) If you are forced to evacuate, you should know where you'll take your horses in the event of emergency. Plan several routes in case one is blocked off.

2) Engraved halters aren't just for the show ring. They're also utilitarian. Have a leather halter and lead with name and telephone number engraved on it. 

3) Keep an emergency first aid kit in the trailer. Keep an extra set of brushes, blankets, bandages, halters and lead ropes in a place where you can easily access and load them.

4) Teach your horse to load. Always. If he's not a good loader, get professional help.

5) Carry a five gallon water tank, filled, in your truck.

6) Carry a garbage can for feed.

7) Make copies of your horses' paperwork: Coggins, health certificate, name and number of veterinarian, and keep them in your truck.