Do You Have A Pet Emergency Kit?

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Natural disasters can hit home at any time.  A disaster preparedness kit for your pet will protect your dog or cat from going hungry or being without medication. Remember, your pet is counting on you to protect them during and after a disaster.

Do You Have A Pet Emergency Kit?
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

No matter where you live, you risk facing a natural disaster.  Daily we read and hear on the news about weather and climate disasters.  Hurricanes, Wildfires, Tornadoes, severe storms, and flooding!
You may already know what to have on hand for yourself should you experience a disaster. But what about your pet?  For pet owners, being prepared for a disaster could make all the difference to your furry friend’s survival.
This article will discuss why you should have an emergency kit for your pet, what it should include, and the importance of having your pet’s identification items up to date. 
 
Why Is It Important To Have A Pet Emergency Kit?
You have probably taught your pet many tricks, but unless you have shown them how to pack a suitcase or stock up on food goods, you cannot expect them to fend for themselves during an emergency.  Your furry babies rely on you to protect and provide for their needs.
A kit with everything your pet needs to survive for 1 to 2 weeks (with or without you) will keep them safe and secure and give you peace of mind.  And it may just save your pet’s life. 
Many pet owners refuse to evacuate during emergencies without their pets because many emergency shelters do not allow pets. Past disasters have taught communities and rescue organizations the importance of being prepared.  Some now have emergency shelters for pets; others welcome pets and their owners.  An emergency kit will ensure you and your pet are ready to go with everything you need. 
 
What Should Be In A Pet Emergency Kit?
Your kit should include everything your pet or pets need to survive for at least a week.  Do not take anything for granted. 
Major emergency and rescue organizations recommend putting together a kit with the following items to ensure your pet’s well-being during a chaotic situation.

• Food and water
• Bottled water for 1 to 2 weeks per pet
• Food for 1 to 2 weeks per pet stored in water-tight containers
• Pet food and water bowls
• Manual can opener (if needed)

Medications and veterinary information

• A list of medications and instructions
• Medications for two weeks per pet
• Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medications for one month
• Copies of medical records, vaccination papers, and a rabies certificate in a waterproof container
• Your vet’s name and phone number

Essential extras

• Carriers and blankets for each pet
• Cat litter, pan, and scoop
• Cleaning supplies in case of accidents
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Leash, collar with ID tag, and harness
• Photos of your pets in case you get separated
• Toys and treats
• Your name and number and the names and numbers of emergency contacts

 
What To Put In A Pet First Aid Kit
In addition to the above essentials, you will also want to include a basic pet first aid kit in your emergency pack.  You can buy a pre-made kit online or from a local pet store.  The cost of these kits varies based on the brand and size.  If you prefer, you can also create your first aid kit. 
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, your pet's first aid kit should include at least the following:

• Clean towels
• Digital thermometer
• Eye dropper
• First aid tape
• Gauze roll
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Latex gloves
• Non-stick bandages
• Saline solution
• Water-based lubricant

Check with your veterinarian for suggestions of other items to keep in your first aid kit specific to your pet.  Remember that cats and dogs may need slightly different things, so plan for both.
 
Make Sure Your Pet’s Identification Is Up To Date
There are several important ways for your pet to be identified if you should be separated.  These forms of identification should be updated whenever anything changes in your life, such as move to a new address, getting a new phone number, etc.

• ID tags - your pet’s identification tags should include your name, current address, phone numbers, and your pet’s name.  Depending on your city or county's ordinances, your pet may also need to wear a rabies tag.
• Microchips - your vet can inject a microchip painlessly under your pet’s skin.  The chip is about the size of a grain of rice and has a unique number entered into a database with your contact information.  Animal shelters and veterinary clinics can scan your animal for a chip and locate your name, address, and phone number to reunite you and your pet.  That is why you should register your pet’s microchip and update your contact information whenever you move.  Contact the manufacturer or try the American Animal Hospital Association’s lookup tool to check your microchip data.
• Photos - dogs and cats may look different as they age.  Ensure you have current photos of your pet and take pictures of any distinguishing features like white paws on a black dog.  Photos may help you locate your pet if you get separated. You can post pictures of your pet on posters or social media.

 
Getting A Back-Up Supply Of Your Pet’s Medication
When an emergency strikes, you will not have time to visit your vet for extra medication.  Make sure that you have a backup supply.  Also, store additional preventative medications like flea and tick treatment.  Check medication expiration dates regularly and highlight your pet’s name on labels.  This is especially important if you have more than one pet.
 
Get Copies Of Your Pet’s Medical And Vaccination Records
Having your pet’s medical records is as important as having your medical records.  If you adopt your pet from a shelter or get your pet from a friend or breeder, they should give you your pet’s file.  Once you take your pet to a veterinarian, you can ask their office for copies of your pet’s records. 
Make sure their file includes the following:

• Your pet’s medical history, including test results and blood work
• Vaccination records
• Prior surgeries
• Current health issues
• Prescribed medications