Prepare now to take care of your pets when seconds count.
Following our checklist of simple ways to prepare yourself and your pet for an emergency, ensures that your family is ready to take care your pets when the unexpected happens.
Identification and Safety
- All pets have collars with identification tags, including your contact information.
- All pets are microchipped, and your contact information is up-to-date with the microchip registry.
- Have recent photos of your pets and yourself with your pets to prove ownership if separated.
Health and Veterinary Care
- Vaccinations for all pets are current.
- Keep a copy of health records, vaccination certificates, and any necessary prescriptions for each pet. Store these in a waterproof container.
- Your veterinarian has a written authorization allowing a designated person to seek medical care for your pets if you are unavailable.
Emergency Supplies
- One week of food, water, and litter (for cats) on hand for each pet.
- Two weeks of medications for each pet, along with feeding and medication instructions, if necessary.
- Blankets, toys, or other comfort items to keep your pet calm and comfortable during stressful situations.
Evacuation Planning
- You have a planned destination if you need to evacuate with your pets (e.g., pet-friendly hotels, friends/family, or shelters).
- A carrier for each small pet and leashes/harnesses for each dog are readily available.
- Ensure all pets can fit in your vehicle; if not, have an alternate plan for their transport.
Mutual Aid and Communication
- Have a “mutual aid” agreement with a neighbor or nearby friend to check on each other’s pets in an emergency when one of you cannot return home.
- Share important information such as feeding schedules, medication needs, and emergency contacts with this person.
Additional Preparations
- Keep recent photos of your pets on your phone or print them in case your pet gets lost.
- Ensure each pet’s carrier or crate is clearly labeled with your contact information.
- Inside each carrier or bag, include copies of important documents like proof of ownership, health records, and vet contact information.
Once you’ve completed each of the items on the checklist, you are ready to get your pets and go, in case of an emergency.
