Expand Your Knowledge

Quick Reference Guide
PYN@evcnb.org

Pet Preparedness

Plan for Your Pet’s Emergency Needs

We love our pets and they depend on us to care for them. Plan now for their needs after a disaster.

Pet Safety

Pets can frighten easily and get lost during an emergency. Take steps to ensure you can be reunited with your pet if separated:

  • Microchip and keep their license up to date.

  • Keep a collar with ID tags and contact information on your pet at all times. If you are visiting an area, tape your local contact information to the collar.

  • Give a house key to a trusted neighbor who could assist you in an emergency in the event you are away from home when disaster strikes. Use the buddy system so that your neighbor knows your pet and its habits and you know theirs.

  • Make sure your pet is comfortable being in a crate, box, cage, or carrier for transport.

  • Tighten and secure latches on birdcages. Secure aquariums by fastening them to a low stand or table.

Prepare a GoBag for each Pet

Your pets will need supplies immediately following a disaster, just like you! Gather the food, water, shelter and other items that will help them get through the first three days:

  • Sturdy leashes and pet carriers

  • Food, water, medications and sanitation supplies (bags, litter, etc.)

  • Recent photo of you with your pet (proof of ownership if separated)

  • Contact information for you, your emergency contact, vet, animal shelters etc.

  • Copy of your pet’s vaccination history. List all medications and their dosage/schedule; if a stranger needs to care for your pet at a shelter, provide information like their feeding schedule, personality traits, etc.

  • Comfort items like a favorite blanket or toy

Keep your pet’s GoBags in their crate or with your GoBags. Make sure they are easily accessible so you can grab and go! Refer to the checklist on the Quick Reference Guide for extended needs.

Evacuation

Do not leave pets behind in an evacuation! If it’s not safe for you to stay in the disaster area, it’s not safe for your pets. Once you leave home, you have no way of knowing how long you’ll be kept out of the area and you may not be able to go back for your pets.

If you don't evacuate, bring pets indoors during an emergency and keep them in a safe room.