Tornados, mudslides, floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes — all of these natural disasters can change lives in an instant. There are several things you can do to prepare for an emergency situation and make sure your dachshund will have the best chance of survival:

• Keep a carrier near the front door so you can leave in a hurry.

• Keep a photocopy of all your dachsie's veterinary prescriptions so you can have them refilled anywhere.

• Permanently identify your dachsie with a microchip or a tattoo.

• Post a list that details the following: dog's name; breed; identifying description; veterinarian and contact information; your name and contact information; next of kin and contact information; type of food, amount and times of feeding; and medications, doses, and where they are located.

First responders (police, firefighters, or animal control officers) arriving at the scene of a disaster are given access to buildings and homes in the damaged area first. If you have your dog's information conspicuously posted, they will know to look for your dog.

If someone cares for your dachshund while you are traveling, make sure that person continues to care for your dog until you call to let them know you are home. Otherwise, if you are delayed while traveling, the care provider may assume you have returned and stop dropping by.

Finally, make plans for your dachshund in case the unspeakable happens and you should die. Not only should you make plans regarding who should take your dog, but you should also make sure the designated person is willing. It's a prospect no one wants to think of, but once you've prepared for the worst, you won't have to think about it anymore.