Develop a Pet Plan & Emergency Kit

Pack your pet's emergency kit now!

Those who evacuated during the Angora Fire of Summer 2007 know how important it is to have the entire family - including pets - ready to “Go Now!” That means having food, water, and comfort items pre-packed. It means being prepared to keep your pets safe in an open field or in temporary housing. Here’s how to outfit your pets for seven unexpected days away from home and supplies.

1. Obtain individual crates or carriers large enough for safe confinement. Pet should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down. Smaller dog crates can hold a cat along with a small aluminum litter pan..
2. Pre-pack and store the crate and a separate container with: Favorite type of toy and bedding; extra collar or harness with leashes for both dogs and cats; bowls; food (dry or self opening cans) and bottled water; cleaning supplies; cat litter and scoop; plastic dog waste bags; a pet first aid kit..
3. Pack a watertight bag with: Instant ID tag for temporary phone number in case of evacuation; current close up pet photo; copy of up to date vaccination records; medications and medical records; phone list including local and out of area veterinarians and boarding kennels, pet friendly housing alternatives, neighbors, and your local animal control.
   Important: boarding facilities and pet friendly shelters require proof of current rabies, distemper, parvo and bordatella vaccinations. Put a family member in the pet photo for proof to claim a rescued pet.
4. Four times a year, rotate medications and food in airtight, waterproof containers. Freshen bottled water just for pets. A rule of thumb for dogs is one gallon per day for a forty pound dog and one quart per day for each cat.

Other Considerations:

• For the special needs of birds, fish and exotics: you may need a generator and fuel for temperature control; safe handling equipment; and other life saving items.
• Microchip for permanent ID.
• Let pets become familiar with their crate. It can be an extra bed or safe haven.
• Establish a plan on how the pets will be gathered and who will take the pre-packed pet supplies.
• Establish a plan with neighbors, friends, family. Agree to look out for each other’s pets if someone is absent when disaster strikes.
• At the first news of disaster, get pets inside. Remember that your distress communicates directly to your pets. Leash them immediately, put pets in their carriers and put the carriers into the car.
• Never leave your pets behind. If you must do so, do not tie them up. Leave lots of water in containers. Immediately call your local animal control to request pet rescue when it is safe. Phone lines will be busy or be out of order. Current ID tags and pet photos are critical in getting your pet back to you.