Emergencies can happen anytime, and it's best to be prepared. With pets, there are some important things you should keep in mind.
Having an emergency bag handy with the things you may need is always a good idea. Should you need to evacuate, please take your pets with you. Making sure someone will be able to take care of or evacuate your pets if you are not at home is of utmost importance.
Many shelters will not accept pets, so deciding where your pet will go ahead of time in the event of an emergency is of utmost importance. It's a good idea to keep a list of pet friendly hotels, boarding kennels or veterinary hospitals in the area.
Below is a list of suggested items to include in an EVAC-PAK and First Aid kit. To view this list as a pdf click here.For more information please visit www.ready.gov.
EVAC-PAK Checklist
- Medications (heartworm, flea prevention or any medication your pet may be taking regularly)
- Pet First Aid Kit (see below)
- Pet Health Records (sealed in a ziplock bag)
- Travel Bowls for food and water
- Food (enough for 1 week)
- Bottled Water (enough for 1 week)
- Collar with Pet ID Tag and leash (an extra collar and leash are a good idea)
- Pet Wipes
- Harness (to attach to seat belt)
- Blanket/Bed
- Crate/Travel Carrier
- Your regular sanitation supplies (pickup bags, wee wee pads, litterbox, etc)
- Familiar items (favorite toy, treats)
- Prepare a flyer with a current photo of your pet and contact information including cell phone number, address and evacuation location
- Waterproof storage container
- Antiseptic/anti-bacterial wipes
- Eye Wash
- Sock (foot wrapper)
- Latex gloves
- Electrolyte Powder (add to water to replenish nutrients)
- Emergency Space Blanket
- Bottled Water
- Medicated Balm
- Leash and Collar
- Soft Muzzle
- Flexible Bandage (Vetrap)
- Gauze Roll
- Bandage Scissors
- Wood Splint
- Pet Thermometer
- Paper Towels
- Plastic Baggies
- Cold Pack/Hot Pack (self activating)
- Cotton Swabs
- Antibiotic Ointment
- Tweezers
- Pet's papers/Vet Records (sealed in a ziplock bag)