Be Prepared

Pet Emergency Plan and Supply Kit

Pets can also be affected by a number of hazard situations. While preparing your family emergency plan, don’t forget to include plans for your pets.

Before a Disaster or Emergency

• Make a preparedness kit for your pet.
  • Leash and collar: clearly labeled with your pet’s name, your name and a contact number
  • Transport carrier: clearly labeled with your name and a contact number
  • Food and water (5-7 day supply) – don’t forget bowls and a can opener
  • Any medications for the animal
  • Copies of your pet’s medical and vaccination records (e.g., rabies certificate)
  • Your veterinarian’s name and phone number
  • Paper towels, newspapers, plastic trash bags, disinfectant (e.g., bleach) for waste clean-up
  • Toys or blankets the pet will find familiar
• Provide for the special needs of unique pets.
  • Birds/lizards: blanket to keep cage warm, plant mister to hydrate feathers
  • Snakes: pillowcase to transport, heating pad for warmth, water bowl to soak
  • Pocket pets (hamsters/gerbils): cage/bedding material, water bottles
• Store items in a sturdy container that can be easily carried.
  • Covered trash container, duffle bag, plastic tote, bucket
• Make sure pets are current on all vaccinations.
• Identification
  • All animals should have some sort of identification (collar with tag, microchip).
  • Take a photo of the pet and keep it with the medical records.
  • Include any proof of ownership materials (e.g., registration information, proof of purchase, adoption records, microchip information).
• Practice loading your pet into their cage, carrier, or trailer.
• Identify pet friendly locations in case of the need to evacuate.
  • Board with friends/relatives in a safe area.
  • Check with your local animal shelter, boarding facility, or veterinary clinic.
  • Pet friendly hotels - www.petswelcome.com

During a Disaster or Emergency

• If you are sheltering in place:
  • Bring your pet indoors.
  • Place them inside a carrier or cage to help reduce their stress.
• If you need to evacuate:
  • Take your pets with you whenever possible.
  • Allow plenty of time to catch and “load” your pet.
  • Make sure your animal has identification securely fastened to them.
  • Call your prearranged animal evacuation site.
• If you must leave your pets behind:
  • NEVER leave animals tied up outside.
  • Leave them untied in an interior room with adequate air and no windows (e.g., bathroom).
  • Purchase a self-feeder in advance and leave enough food and water for 3-5 days.
  • Leave a faucet dripping as a water source; keep the sink drain open.
  • Leave a notice on your front door with the location and type of pets inside, their names and your contact phone number.

After the Disaster or Emergency

• A pet’s behavior may change before, during and even after a disaster.
  • In the first few days after the disaster, leash your pets when they go outside.
  • Maintain close contact to help them readjust to the changed environment.