Emergency Preparedness for Pets

If it's not safe for you, it's not safe for them

Ready.gov advises never leaving pets behind when you evacuate. Pets left behind can be injured, lost or killed, and you may not be able to return for days.

Pet emergency kit checklist

• Food for at least several days, in an airtight, waterproof container
• Water and collapsible bowls
• Medications and copies of vaccination and medical records
• Pet first aid kit
• Collar or harness with ID tags, and a leash
• Crate or carrier for each pet
• Litter, litter box, poop bags, paper towels and garbage bags
• A recent photo of you with your pet, to prove ownership
• Familiar toys, treats or bedding to reduce stress
• Your veterinarian's contact information

Identification

Microchip your pets and keep your contact information up to date in the microchip registry. Add an out-of-area contact in case your local phone service is down.

Plan where your pets will go

• Many public shelters accept only service animals. Call ahead to find pet-friendly shelters.
• Make a list of pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation routes.
• Ask friends or family outside your area whether they could take your pets.
• Find boarding facilities and veterinary offices that could shelter pets in an emergency.
• Arrange a neighbor who can get your pets if a disaster strikes while you're away.

Large animals

If you have horses or livestock, plan transportation and destinations well in advance, and practice loading animals into trailers.