Natural disasters can strike at any moment — and sometimes come with little-to-no warning.
As a homeowner, it’s my responsibility to ensure everyone in my household is prepared for the worst-case scenario in the event of a disaster, such as a hurricane, tornado, flood and/or wildfire.
And that means making sure my pets are both safe and accounted for. While there is an art to being prepared — or, in this case, pet-pared — I’m going to help show you the way with this go-to guide for a pet emergency kit.
What to Include in a Pet Evacuation Kit
A pet evacuation kit is just as important as the emergency kit you prepare for yourself. Think of it as your pet’s survival toolkit. If packed properly, it’ll include everything your pets need to stay safe, comfortable, healthy and at least somewhat happy if you’re ever forced to leave home quickly or shelter in place for an extended period. The key is thinking beyond just food and water (though those are obviously crucial).
Whether you’re just now putting one together for the first time or looking to update the one you created years ago, let’s go over all the most important items to pack in your pet emergency kit.
The Non-Negotiables
Let’s start with the absolute must-haves. The items your pet can’t live or survive without.
For example, every pet evacuation kit should include at least one week’s worth of food (both dry and canned) stored in airtight containers. And don’t forget about the can opener! You should also aim for at least one gallon of water per pet per day, so 7-10 gallons should work.
Other necessities include a scoop (for the food), spoons, food and water dishes, a carrier (or cage), collar (with ID tags), leash and harness.
And if your pet takes any medications, pack extra (at least two weeks worth). Pharmacies might not be open during disasters, and you don’t want to be stuck without life-saving prescriptions.
Cleanliness Counts
Cleanliness goes a long way in keeping your pets (and family) safe during a natural disaster.
For cats, pack an extra litter box (they have portable ones) and at least two bags of your cat’s favorite litter. If possible, train your cat to use the portable litter box so they’re familiar with it when that day comes.
For dogs, make sure you pack newspaper, pee pads for furniture or carpet and poop disposal bags.
I would also pack a litter scoop, disinfectant, paper towels, and any grooming items your pet uses often, such as brushes, shampoo, conditioner and/or nail clippers.
First Aid Supplies
A first aid kit — it’s something you hope you never need, but you never want to be without.
While the items in your pet’s first aid kit will mimic the items in your own first aid kit, I recommend packing a separate one specifically for your pet. After all, there’s no such thing as having too much first aid.
Some first aid necessities include antibiotic cream, bandages, isopropyl alcohol, gloves, saline solution, towels and tweezers. I would also throw in a good amount of flea and tick treatment, just in case.
A first aid kit can save a pet’s life — especially when circumstances are dire and time is of the essence.
Important Documents
When push comes to shove, having the necessary paperwork for your pet can be vital to their survival.
Keep copies of your pet’s identification, proof of ownership, microchip information, and vaccination records (especially rabies) in a waterproof container to ensure they’re not damaged in transit.
I would also include your pet’s medical records and a contact list of your vet, emergency animal hospitals and pet-friendly shelters — as well as your own contact info, in case you and your pet get separated.
Another pro tip: take a recent photo of you with your pet, as it’s the best proof of ownership out there. And write down detailed feeding and medication instructions in case someone else needs to care for them.
Home Away from Home
Your pet’s emotional well-being matters, too — especially when their world gets turned upside down.
If your pet has a favorite toy at home, buy a duplicate and store it away in their pet emergency kit to ensure they never have to go a day without it. And do the same for their favorite blanket and bed. You can also pack extra boxes of their favorite treats and bones to take their mind off the chaos.
If possible, pack a few items that would carry the scent of home — maybe an old toy that has seen better days or an old collar they don’t use anymore.
These items might seem less critical than food and water, but they’re often the difference between a terrified pet and one that’s merely anxious.
Always Have Emergency Plan
An emergency kit without an emergency plan is like packing a suitcase but forgetting to book the flight.
Before disaster strikes, it’s important that everyone’s accounted for — including your pets. And that means having a plan in place for both the care and potential evacuation of your pets.
For example, your plan should include where you’ll go, how you’ll get there and who’s responsible for what. You’ll also want to list pet-friendly shelters, hotels or friends and family members who can house you and your furry companions. Doing these things last-minute often results in disappointment and frustration.
When you’re prepared — or, in this case, pet-pared — then you and your family are ready for anything.
