Be Prepared in Case of an Emergency

Disasters and the unexpected can happen.  Being prepared ahead of time is essential during an emergency to be sure everyone, including your pets, are cared for.  Complete your Pet Emergency Planning Guide now, so if disaster strikes, you and your pet will be ready!

Create an easily portable & waterproof tote with emergency supplies and provisions that you can easily access from your home or grab-and-go if you need to evacuate.

1. Food, Water and Meds: Fill waterproof containers with a week’s supply of food and medications; remember drinking water, too!
2. Necessary Supplies: Bowls, extra leashes, and collapsible carriers or crates, cat litter/pan and a manual can opener, favorite toy or treats.
3. Organize your pet’s information – and keep this guide and checklist!
   • Photo and description of your pet, as well as any proof of ownership.
   • Microchip number – be sure to verify your pet’s microchip enrollment information with AKC Reunite at 1-800-252-7894.
   • Veterinarian contact information along with your pet’s medical and/or insurance records.
   • Feeding schedule information.
4. Easily readable map with potential evacuation routes highlighted.
5. Blanket, flashlight and batteries.
6. First Aid Kit, a helpful tool for both humans and pets.

Review the materials in your emergency supply tote and all plans and preparations on a regular basis.

• Check expiration dates on your emergency supplies.
• Are your packed materials seasonally appropriate.
• Have planned evacuation routes changed due to construction or other reasons?
• Is your pet’s microchip record current?
• Assess your flashlights, batteries, drinking water, emergency gasoline, blankets, non-perishable food items.

The Safest Place for Your Pet is to be With You

At the first mention of a pending disaster, take action!

• Ensure all pets are wearing collars with securely fastened, up-to-date identification.
• Check your pet emergency supplies are accessible and easily portable at a moment’s notice.
• Call ahead to confirm emergency shelter arrangements for you and your pets.
• Bring pets inside so you won’t have to search for them if you need to evacuate quickly.

If evacuating:

Never leave your pet at home.  Most evacuations last only a few days, but sometimes you may not be able to return to your home quickly.  Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times and have a sturdy crate or carrier for transport.

• Call 800-252-7894 confirm your pet’s microchip has your current contact information, or confirm online using our online records system.
• If you plan to go to a hotel, call ahead to confirm your pet is welcome.

Download a PDF of our Pet Emergency Planning Guide