This guide is for pet owners who want to be prepared for common emergencies such as power outages, evacuations, and severe weather. It focuses on steps that fit everyday homes, routines, and budgets.
While we often focus on human needs, pets have unique vulnerabilities that are easy to overlook. From securing food and water to navigating shelter restrictions, planning for your pet’s safety requires its own checklist.
Whether you’re preparing for a short-term disruption or a full evacuation, here’s how to prepare your pet for an emergency an ensure your they stay safe and cared for.
1. Build a Pet Emergency Kit
Just like your own go-bag, your pet needs a kit of essentials.
Preparing a pet emergency kit helps reduce stress and confusion when routines are disrupted. Having supplies ready means you are not scrambling for food, medications, or paperwork during an already stressful situation.
Preparing supplies ahead of time helps you care for pets during both extended disruptions at home and sudden evacuations. Some items are best stored as part of your household supplies, while others should be kept ready in a portable go bag.
What to Keep in a Pet Go Bag
A pet go bag should be lightweight and easy to grab if you need to leave quickly.
- 3 to 5 days of pet food in sealed bags
- Portable water and collapsible bowls
- Leash, harness, or carrier appropriate for your pet
- Waste bags, litter, or disposable pads
- Copies of vaccination records and medical information (VERY IMPORTANT. Some evacuation shelters may deny access or quarantine your pet for up to 10 days without proof of up-to-date vaccinations.)
- Recent photos of you with your pet in case you get separated or need proof of ownership
- ID tags and microchip registration information
- Medications with clear dosage instructions
- A small comfort item to reduce stress (blanket, toy, old shirt that smells like home, etc.)
- Written feeding schedules and care notes if someone else needs to help
For reptiles and animals with specialized needs:
- Backup heat source such as heat packs or a battery powered heating pad
- Temperature and humidity monitoring tools to track enclosure conditions
Keep the go bag near an exit and review its contents every few months to replace expired food or medications.
What to Keep at Home for Extended Disruptions
These items support pets during situations where leaving home is not advised.
- 7 to 10 days of pet food stored in airtight containers (or canned)
- Bottled water or stored water for each pet
- Collapsible food and water bowls
- Extra litter, waste bags, or puppy pads in case going outside isn’t feasible
- Extra medications and supplements
- Pet first aid supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers, and a pocket-guide for care
- Cleaning supplies for accidents
Store these supplies in a cool, dry location near your main emergency supplies.
2. Make a Shelter-in-Place Plan
Not every emergency requires evacuation. Power outages, extreme temperatures, poor air quality, or nearby hazards may make it safer to stay home. A shelter-in-place plan helps you care for pets when leaving is not advised or possible.
Choose a Safe Area
Identify a space in your home where pets can stay comfortably for several hours or days.
- Select a room away from windows during storms
- Avoid areas with fireplaces, generators, or fuel burning appliances
- Use interior rooms for better temperature stability and air quality
Manage Temperature and Air Quality
Pets are sensitive to heat, cold, and smoke.
- Keep extra blankets for warmth during winter outages
- Use battery powered fans during heat waves
- Close windows and doors during smoke or poor air quality events
- Have extra litter or waste supplies if outdoor access is limited
Maintain Food, Water, and Routine
Consistency helps reduce stress when normal routines are disrupted.
- Stick to regular feeding times when possible
- Use measured portions to conserve food if outages last longer than expected
- Provide fresh water regularly and clean bowls to prevent illness
Prepare for Limited Power and Light
Loss of power affects both safety and comfort.
- Use battery powered lights instead of candles to reduce fire risk
- Keep headlamps or flashlights available for nighttime pet care
- Avoid using open flames around animals
Monitor Stress and Health
Confined spaces and unfamiliar sounds can increase anxiety.
- Watch for changes in appetite, behavior, or breathing
- Keep comfort items nearby to help pets settle
- Contact a veterinarian if your pet shows signs of illness or distress
3. Plan for Evacuation with Pets
Evacuation shelters and hotels may not accept animals (or have them quarantined without vaccination records), so have a plan ahead of time.
Steps to Take:
- Identify pet-friendly hotels along multiple evacuation routes (many waive fees during disasters).
- Ask a friend or relative outside the danger zone if they can temporarily shelter your pet.
- Include your pet in family evacuation drills so they’re comfortable getting in the car and riding in their carrier.
4. Keep Documentation Handy
In a crisis, proof of ownership and up-to-date health records can make a big difference, especially if you get separated.
What to Keep:
- Vaccination records
- Microchip ID number and registration
- Pet insurance details (if applicable)
- Emergency contact info for your vet
5. Know Their Stress Signs
Pets can panic just like people. Dogs may bark or tremble. Cats might hide or act aggressively. Learn your pet’s stress cues and know how to calm them with voice, touch, or treats.
Bonus Tip: Consider anxiety aids like pheromone sprays, thunder shirts, or vet-prescribed calming meds if your pet is especially sensitive.
Don’t Make These Common Mistakes
- Waiting until the last minute to gather supplies
- Assuming you’ll be allowed to bring pets into public shelters
- Forgetting to update ID tags or microchip info
- Leaving pets behind (they may not survive on their own)
By creating a plan that includes your pets, you’re avoiding tough decisions later and giving yourself more control in a crisis. Stay informed about local emergency shelters, keep pet documentation up to date, and rotate supplies regularly. The more prepared you are today, the better you’ll be able to protect your entire household (two-legged or four) in an emergency.
