Making a Pet Emergency Kit

Disasters and emergencies can creep up at any time. Preparation will help you be ready for anything you might face. If you have a pet, it is important to include some provisions for him in your emergency kit.  This will make it more likely that you will be able to keep him or her with you, and make it easier for you to care for them in case of a problem.

Pet First Aid Kit:

In your disaster or emergency kit you should keep a first aid kit designed for your pet. Include hydrogen peroxide, a small flashlight, hot and cold packs, an emergency heat blanket, tweezers, saline solution, and bandages. You should also include a book or pet care manual as well. This way if something goes wrong, you will have the ability to care for your pet.

Paperwork:

Use a waterproof container or plastic bag to store your pet’s information including their name, any behavior problem, any medications and dosage, and their veterinarian information.  Also include your name, phone number, address, and pictures of your pet. Include their medications and their medical records as well as proof that they are up to date on their shots. If you are separated from your pet, this will make it easier for someone to locate you, and help keep your pet out of the pound!

Transportation:

Include a leash, halter, muzzle, or secure carrying case in case you need to easily transport them. This should also include any bathroom supplies that you need.

Food and Water:

You should have three days worth of canned food available. Canned works better because it won't become ruined if it is a wet. You should have a manual can opener, a bowl, and plenty of fresh water.

Familiar Things or Comfort items:

You should have something familiar things in your kit as well. Choose a toy or two that has been played with before or a blanket that has been used and not washed so it has a familiar scent. Even one of your old shirts will smell like home, and making it a little easier to keep them relaxed even in stressful conditions.

Towels:

Accidents happen when pets are stressed! You can use towels to clean up, and also to dry your pet off if he has been exposed to wet conditions.  It is also a good idea to have a few plastic bags available to you can put the towel in there when you are done.

Grooming and Cleaning Items:

Have brushes, trash bags, newspapers, and plastic or rubber gloves in case you need to do some cleaning. Anything else that might make it easier to clean your pet or clean up after your pet should there be a need.

Emergency Contact:

While it isn't always easy you should talk with other pet owners so that someone else can be there to take care of your pet should you require help. If you plan on taking care of their and they plan on taking care of yours, you will be prepared, just in case.  

If you need to evacuate your residence for any reason, contact the shelter or hotel in advance and made sure they allow pets. If they don’t, you will have to make alternative arrangements for your furry family member!

Having a plan and a kit available for your pet in case of an emergency is very important. It will make it easier for you to care for them when and if something should happen. Having these things ready will help you for disasters and other emergencies which will require some action.