Pillar 1: Craft Your Emergency Plan

Build a “buddy system” with neighbors, friends, or family who can care for or evacuate your pets if you’re unable to do so. Make sure everyone knows your plan, where your go-kit is, and who holds spare keys.

• Evacuation Buddy: Name & phone of someone who will help.
• Long-Term Caregiver: Someone you’ve designated.
• Pet-Friendly Safe Havens: Research hotels, kennels, and friends outside the disaster zone.
• Practice & Training: Crate-train your pet, take calm car rides together.
• Escape Strategy: Map multiple routes, have “Rescue Alert” stickers, evacuate early.

Pillar 2: Assemble Go-Kit & Vital Documents

Pet Go-Kit Packing List

• 7‑day supply of food (waterproof container)
• 7‑day supply of water
• 2‑week supply of prescription meds
• Carrier with ID, extra leash/harness/collar
• Collapsible bowls, can opener, treats
• Pet first-aid kit
• Sanitation supplies (litter, poop bags, disinfectant)
• Comfort items: blanket, toys, calming aids

Vital Documents Checklist

Store physical copies in a waterproof bag and digital versions in the cloud. Review annually.

• Ownership papers, medical/vaccination records
• Microchip info, recent photo with you
• Medication and diet instructions
• Emergency contact sheet

Pillar 3: Managing Pet Behavior During & After a Crisis

During an Emergency

If sheltering in place, bring pets indoors to a windowless room, block hiding spots, and keep go-kit nearby. During evacuation, pets should be leashed or in carriers—never tied up. Monitor stress and heat exhaustion.

The Muzzle Question

Even calm pets may snap when frightened. Use a basket-style muzzle that allows panting and drinking—train in low-stress times. Never muzzle a vomiting pet.

Post-Disaster Recovery

• Keep pets leashed or contained outside.
• Check surroundings for hazards (broken glass, wires).
• Prevent drinking from standing water.
• Inspect for injuries; avoid wildlife and other animals.
• Be patient—maintain routines and update vaccines.

Pillar 4 & 5: Special Considerations & Resources

Large Animals

• ID all animals, plan trailer evacuation well in advance.
• Pre-arrange destinations and transport plans.

Small Caged Pets (Birds, Rodents, Fish)

• Transport in secure, ventilated cages or carriers with bedding.
• Use frozen water bottles wrapped in towels for cooling.

Key Resources

• Ready.gov’s Pet Preparedness Guide—core government resource on kits, travel tips, and large animal planning.
• American Red Cross: Pet Disaster Preparedness—includes tips on rescue alerts, muzzling, behavior, and recovery.
• ASPCA—offers local advice and disaster guides.
• Ready.gov Pet Preparedness Toolkit—downloadable flyers, checklists, and videos.
• FEMA app—for alerts and shelter information, including pet-friendly options.

And don’t forget to check your local Animal Control and Emergency Management offices for region-specific shelters and policies.

Note: This is an informational blog post and not a substitute for official emergency guidance.