Why plan for disasters with pets?
Emergencies can happen anytime—wildfires, earthquakes, power outages, or evacuations. Having a disaster plan that includes your animals helps keep the whole family safe and reduces stress when time is short.
Use the steps below to make a plan, build a pet emergency kit, and know what to do during and after a disaster.
Make a Plan
- Identify pet‑friendly places you can go if you must evacuate (friends/family, pet‑friendly hotels, boarding kennels).
- Plan transportation for all animals (carriers/crates, leashes, muzzles if needed).
- Keep ID current: microchip registration and collar tags with your phone & an out‑of‑area contact.
- Keep records handy: photos with your pet, vaccination history, meds list, ownership records.
- Practice loading pets into carriers and vehicles; label carriers with your contact info.
Build an Emergency Kit
Prepare your emergency kit beforehand so it can last about 72 hours. Store supplies in a grab-and-go bin near the door and refresh every 6 months.
General Household Supplies
- 3–7 days of food & water
- Cash & important documents
- Clothes for everyone
- Flashlight & radio (with extra batteries)
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications & copies of prescriptions
- Bathroom products – toilet paper, soap, trash bags, paper towels
- Other useful items: tools, whistle, gloves
Extra Supplies for Pets
- 3–7 days of pet food & water
- Food & water bowls, measuring scoop
- Medications & medical records (e.g., vaccination proof)
- Proper identification – microchip & collar with ID, plus photo of you with your pet
- Leash, harness, muzzle (if needed), sturdy carrier/crate
- Litter box/tray, puppy pads, poop bags, cleaning supplies
- Blanket/towel, familiar toy to reduce stress
- Contact list: veterinarian, local animal control, pet-friendly hotels
During & After a Disaster
During
- Bring pets indoors early; keep them in carriers or on leash.
- Take your pets with you if you evacuate—if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.
- Follow instructions from officials; go to pet‑friendly shelters/locations.
After
- Use caution around debris, ash, standing water, and wildlife.
- Keep pets on leash and supervised until hazards are cleared and routines resume.
- Watch for stress or illness; contact your veterinarian if you have concerns.
Flyers & Printables
Quick Disaster Planning Tips for Pet Owners
More Resources
Last updated: September 2025