Emergency Supply Kit for Pets

As you’re preparing your kit to cover your family’s basic needs in an emergency, don’t forget to prepare a kit for your pets as well. Your pet’s emergency supply list should include:

• Water
• Food
• Medication
• Collar with ID Tag and Leash
• First Aid Supplies
• Crate/Pet Carrier
• Photo of You and Your Pet
• Comfort Items
• Important Records
• Sanitation
• Additional Pet Preparation

Water

Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets.

Food

Keep at least three days of food stored in a waterproof container.

Medication

Keep a supply of your pet’s medicine in a waterproof container.

Collar with ID Tag and Leash

Have a backup collar stored in your kit that includes a rabies tag and identification tag identical to the one your pet wears at all times.

First Aid Supplies

Include supplies such as flea and tick prevention, cotton bandage rolls, bandage scissors, tape, antibiotic ointment, isopropyl alcohol, and saline solution. Consult your veterinarian about additional supplies if your pet has special needs or concerns.

Crate/Pet Carrier

Make sure it is large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down.

Photo of You and Your Pet

A photo of you and your pet together will be helpful if you become separated and need to prove ownership.

Comfort Items

Having a favorite toy or bedding and some treats available will help reduce your pet’s stress.

Important Records

This includes vaccination records, medical records, veterinarian information. Keep copies in a waterproof container.

Sanitation Items

Can include newspapers, paper towels, trash bags, shampoo, bleach, and litter and a litter box if necessary.

Additional Pet Preparation

In addition to putting together an emergency kit, pet owners can take these steps to help prepare for emergencies:

• Arrange a Safe Haven
  • Contact your veterinarian for a list of boarding kennels available in emergency situations.
  • Check with local animal shelters to see if they provide temporary emergency shelter.
  • Make arrangements with a designated caregiver outside of your immediate area.
• Prepare Pets for Evacuation
  • Store all emergency kits in an easy-to-reach location (one near an exit, if possible).
  • Make sure all pets are wearing collars with current identification tags and information.
  • Bring pets indoors at the first sign of a storm.
  • Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the potential disaster area.