Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, winter storms, tornadoes or sudden flooding, few places are exempt from severe weather — which means every pet parent should have an emergency strategy for their animal companions.
Sadly, in the rush to evacuate many people end up leaving pets behind. For those who do bring their animals, arranging last-minute travel or locating shelters that accept pets can be difficult.
Additionally, emergency boarding, care and supplies obtained at the last minute can be extremely costly.
Having a disaster readiness plan is essential — and that plan should include a pet emergency kit.
Pet Emergency Preparedness in 3 Steps
It’s wise to start preparing to protect yourself, your household and your pets at the beginning of your area’s emergency season. Below is a checklist to help you prepare your pets for a disaster.
1. Put Together a Pet Emergency Kit
When you assemble supplies for your household emergency kit, be sure to also prepare a kit specifically for your furry companions. Keep this kit accessible even if you don’t anticipate needing to evacuate — weather can shift suddenly and without warning.
Per recommendations from PetsWelcome.com, your pet emergency kit should contain:
- A collar and ID tags displaying a name and contact details (if your pet doesn’t normally wear one).
- The phone number and address of your veterinarian and a nearby emergency veterinary clinic for the area where you’ll be staying.
- Updated medical records and tags stored in a waterproof pouch or sleeve.
- Medications (your vet may be able to provide an extra supply if your pet relies on medication) and a pet first-aid kit — here’s a list of recommended items.
- Recent photos of your pet to assist in identification if you become separated.
- Copies of your pet’s feeding routine, notable behaviors, medication schedule and any medical conditions in case they must be boarded or fostered unexpectedly.
- A small toy, pillow, blanket or bed that provides comfort for your pet.
- Weather-specific items to keep your pet safe and calm (thundershirt, booties, paw balm, calming supplements, flotation device).
- Food and water bowls, plus extra food and treats. (Include a manual can opener if needed.)
- Plastic waste bags, paper towels, lightweight cat litter and a travel-size litter box. (A small flashlight is useful for nighttime bathroom trips.)
- Dry shampoo, wipes, a towel and any other items needed for quick cleanups.
- A leash, harness and a travel crate that remain comfortable for extended periods.
After packing your kit — including first-aid supplies — inspect it every few months to replace expired or worn items.
2. Prepare in Advance of a Disaster
Before severe seasonal weather or other disasters threaten your area, take steps to ensure your pet stays safe and well cared for.
Do the following now, before an emergency arrives:
- If your pets need vaccinations, get them current now so you’re not trying to find an appointment during an approaching storm. Some shelters, hotels, boarding facilities or foster programs won’t accept unvaccinated animals.
- Call hotels, motels and emergency shelters along your planned evacuation routes to confirm they accept pets. Explain that you’re inquiring about emergency evacuation policies — they may outline their procedures and allowances. Keep a list of places that do accept animals.
- Catalog veterinarians and boarding facilities along your evacuation routes in case you need to drop off pets while seeking shelter for your family.
- If your evacuation plan involves staying with friends or relatives in another area, contact them to confirm they’re willing to host your pets as well.
3. Care for Your Pets During an Emergency (or Secure Someone Who Will)
If you must evacuate, don’t leave your pets behind.
Animals abandoned during disasters often end up in shelters or relocated, and many are lost or perish.
If you evacuate, avoid leaving your pet confined in your home with extra food and water. You can’t predict how long you’ll be away, how badly the weather will damage your residence, or how your pet will handle prolonged stress and solitude.
Never tie a pet to a fence, light pole or telephone post, or release them to roam free outside. Do not leave animals locked in cars, boats or otherwise stranded. Such actions are considered animal cruelty and can result in fines or worse.
If you become separated from your pet, first contact your local animal control agency. You can also search online for sites that track animals rescued during natural disasters.
Caring for a pet is a major responsibility, and part of that duty is ensuring their protection during emergencies.
Remember: preparation is the best way to keep yourself and those you love — both human and animal — safe.
Alex Mercer is the social media coordinator at Savinly.
