What to Put in Your Pet’s Emergency Go-Bag

Simba says “My new family better pack extra toys in my emergency go-bag!”

With hurricane season fast approaching, we’d like to encourage pet owners everywhere to start putting together an emergency go-kit for their pets. Whether it’s a flood, fire or hurricane, the following items will be useful to have ready to go in the event of a disaster.

Items recommended by the SPCA of Texas and Hill’s Pet Nutrition:

• Basic first aid supplies 
• A 3-day supply of bottled water and the pet’s preferred food, held in a waterproof container 
• Safety harness and leash 
• Waste clean-up supplies 
• Medications and a copy of the pet’s medical records 
• List of veterinarians and local pet care organizations 
• List of the pet’s feeding routine and any behavioral issues 
• Comfort items, such as a blanket or favorite toy, to help keep the pet calm and comfortable 

Hill’s Pet Nutrition also recommends the following tips to help ensure your pet’s safety in an emergency:

• Ensure your pet’s identification by using a microchip or collar ID tag, and make sure that all contact information is up-to-date. You can update the microchip’s contact information at the manufacturer’s website by locating the code from the barcode sticker or the confirmation form provided by your veterinarian or animal shelter. 

• Display a pet rescue decal on the front door or window to let first responders know there is a pet in the house. Include the local veterinarian’s contact information. 

• Learn where your pets like to hide in the house when frightened. Finding a pet quickly will help to evacuate faster. 

• Identify a location to take a pet in case of evacuation. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people may not be open to pets. Scout hotels and motels with pet-friendly policies and ask relatives or friends if they could house you and your pet. 

• Carry a picture of the pet in the event of separation. 

• In case of evacuation, consider taking a pet carrier or crate for transport and safe-keeping. 

• Be sure your pet is spayed or neutered and current on his vaccinations before disaster strikes. Keep copies of your pets’ medical records, including proof of vaccinations, for each of your pets in a sealed plastic baggie. 

• You can also include contact information for your veterinarian, photographs of your pets, a pet personality profile and names and addresses of those willing to foster your pets during an emergency. Keep a duplicate packet or list in a spot that rescue personnel can easily find. 

Families looking to learn more about disaster preparedness and safety, as well as the Hill’s Disaster Relief Network, can visit HillsPet.com/PetPrepared.