Your pets are more than just animals—they’re family. When disaster strikes, you want to ensure they are just as safe and prepared as everyone else in your household. By taking a few simple steps now, you can protect your furry, feathered, or scaled family members in an emergency.
Why Pet Preparedness Matters
Emergencies can happen at any time, and just like people, pets can be at risk. From severe weather to unexpected evacuations, having a plan for your pets can prevent panic and keep them safe. Remember, what’s good for you during an emergency is good for your pet too.
Preparing Your Pets Before a Disaster
Plan for Safe Shelter Options
Not all emergency shelters accept pets. Planning ahead ensures that you and your pets have a safe place to go:
- Research Pet-Friendly Shelters: Contact local shelters, hotels, and boarding facilities to find pet-friendly options.
- Develop a Buddy System: Partner with neighbors, friends, or family members to care for each other’s pets if an emergency occurs while you’re away.
- Identify Trusted Caregivers: Ensure someone you trust has access to your home and can care for your pets if you can’t make it back.
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
Just like your family needs an emergency kit, your pets do too. Make sure your kit is well-stocked and easily accessible.
Essential Items for Your Pet’s Emergency Kit
- Food and Water (3-Day Supply): Pack enough for each pet, along with bowls and a manual can opener if using canned food.
- Medications and Medical Records: Include any prescriptions your pet needs, vaccination records, and a basic pet first aid kit.
- Collar, ID Tag, and Leash: Keep these readily available, with backups for safety. Microchipping your pet is also recommended.
- Crate or Carrier: Ensure it is appropriately sized and comfortable.
- Photo of You and Your Pet Together: Helps prove ownership if you become separated.
- Important Documents: Registration, vaccination records, and any other identification documents.
- Familiar Comfort Items: Favorite toys, blankets, or bedding can help ease your pet’s anxiety.
- Sanitation Supplies: Plastic bags, litter for cats, and cleaning supplies to maintain hygiene.
Practice Emergency Drills with Your Pets
- Familiarize Your Pets with Their Carrier: Make it a comfortable, positive space.
- Leash Training: Even if your pet is primarily indoors, ensure they are comfortable on a leash in case you must evacuate.
- Evacuation Routes: Practice safe and efficient ways to get your pets out of your home quickly.
Download Our Pet Preparedness PDF
We have created a convenient Pet Preparedness PDF with all this information, so you can easily access it when you need it. Click below to download the PDF and print it for quick reference.
Your Pets Depend on You – Make Sure They’re Protected
A little preparation now can make all the difference when a disaster strikes. Protect the ones who can’t protect themselves—plan, prepare, and stay safe.
