Our pets count on us for an awful lot, and that includes keeping them safe in situations they may not fully understand. No pet owner wants to think about their pet experiencing the anxiety and uncertainty of an emergency such as a fire or natural disaster. However, it is always best to be prepared in the event one happens.

Preparing an emergency to-go kit for your pet in advance means it’s always on hand in the event you need it, removing the need to gather items quickly when emergencies happen and the possibility of missing or forgetting vital pet care necessities.

Here’s everything you need to create an emergency to-go kit that will help keep your pet safe in any scenario.

    1. Large Bag
    2. Leash, Collar, and ID Tags
    3. Water, Food, and Collapsible Bowls
    4. Waste Bags and/or Cat Litter and Pan
    5. Towels and Blankets
    6. Cleaning Supplies
    7. Paperwork and Contact Sheet
    8. First Aid Kit
    9. Pet Crate or Carrier

Here are our tips for pulling together these items, and why they are so important for your pet’s to-go kit.

Large Bag

Start with a large travel bag, gym bag, or plastic tote. Make sure it is large enough to fit all your essentials but not too heavy to carry. Store it in the same, easy-to-access place so that you can grab it and go quickly.

Leash, Collar, and ID Tags

Keep an extra leash and collar with up-to-date ID tags in your emergency kit. Microchipping your pet provides an additional layer of identification if you become separated, so make sure your contact information in the microchip registry is current.

dog with leash, Be Prepared: How To Make An Emergency To-Go Kit For Your Pet

Water, Food, Meds, and Collapsible Bowls

Pack several days’ worth of fresh water and pet food in your emergency kit, storing the food in a waterproof container. (If your pet’s food requires a can opener, throw one in there, too.) Add two collapsible bowls to save space.

If your pet takes any daily medications, keep several days’ supply of these meds in your go bag as well. Don’t forget to refresh any unused food every few months, and make note of medication expiration dates!

Waste Bags and/or Cat Litter and Pan

If you have a cat, you should include enough litter for at least a few days. For dogs, you’ll want a few extra rolls of waste bags.

cat and litter box, Be Prepared: How To Make An Emergency To-Go Kit For Your Pet

Towels and Blankets

Keep one clean towel and one clean blanket in your emergency kit. Both of these items can be used in many situations and are good to have on hand.

Cleaning Supplies

Pack a few basic cleaning supplies, including paper towels, garbage bags, all-purpose cleaner, and disinfectant.

Paperwork and Contact Sheet

Keep both printed and digital copies of important pet records, including microchip information, vaccination and medical records, prescriptions, adoption records, and recent photos of your pet. Store printed copies in a waterproof container and save digital copies somewhere you can easily access them from your phone.

Include a list of important contacts, such as family members, an emergency contact, your veterinarian, nearby animal hospitals, pet poison control hotline, and other pet care providers.

It’s also helpful to include basic instructions for your pet’s daily care, feeding, medications, and boarding needs in case someone else needs to care for them.

pet paperwork, Be Prepared: How To Make An Emergency To-Go Kit For Your Pet

First Aid Kit

Keep a basic pet first aid kit with your emergency supplies. Include essentials such as gauze, nonstick bandages, medical tape, blunt-end scissors, disposable gloves, tweezers, saline solution, a digital thermometer, clean towels, and a small flashlight. You may also want to ask your veterinarian if there are any additional supplies you should keep on hand based on your pet’s specific needs.

Remember, first aid can help stabilize your pet in an emergency, but it is not a substitute for veterinary care.

first aid kit, Be Prepared: How To Make An Emergency To-Go Kit For Your Pet

Pet Crate or Carrier

Keep a sturdy, appropriately sized pet carrier or crate easily accessible in case you need to evacuate. Make sure your pet is comfortable using it before an emergency occurs.

Conclusion

It’s not fun to think about our pets in potentially dangerous situations, but being prepared can help alleviate the stress during these situations. Once your kit is packed, store it somewhere easy to access and check it every few months to replace expired food, medications, and other supplies.

Pet Emergency Preparedness Resources

For more information about preparing for pet emergencies and providing basic first aid, check out these helpful resources: