Disaster Preparedness for Pets

When disaster strikes, every member of your family matters, including the ones with paws, scales, and feathers. For pet owners in the Pacific Northwest, being prepared isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential. From earthquakes and volcanic activity to the wildfires that have become a fixture of our summers, the question isn’t whether we’ll face an emergency, but when. A little preparation now can make all the difference later.

Make a Plan 

There are some disasters where the best plan is to shelter in place, while others may call for evacuation to stay safe. Did you know that American Red Cross shelters welcome companion animals at times of disaster?  

If you must leave your home, think about where you will go, how you will get there, where you will stay, and what you might need to bring. Create a backup plan with your neighbors just in case you aren’t home and your pets need help. Keep microchip and ID tag information up to date. (If you need to check or update your pet’s microchip information, check our website for information. We also offer microchipping services for income-qualifying residents for just $25.)

Having this plan in place well in advance will help if you need to leave suddenly. 

Organize Critical Supplies 

Planning and building a kit ensures you know exactly what you need and where it’s all located in case of an emergency. Essential kits should include food, water, medicine, backup batteries or chargers for important devices, battery-powered or hand-crank radios, and critical personal records. Kits should also be tailored to your family unit, whether that includes supplies for kids or fur-kids. 

For pets, your kit should also include… 

• Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers to transport your pet safely and securely. 

• Food, drinking water, bowls, litter/litter pan, and a manual can opener for canned pet food. 

• Medications and copies of medical/vaccination records stored in a waterproof container. 

• Pet First Aid kit. 

• Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost. This helps eliminate mistaken identity and confusion.  

• Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets. 

• Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable. 

A go-kit should include at least three days’ worth of supplies and one-month supply of any medications. 

Make a Contact Plan

Create a plan for how you will reconnect with loved ones if you are separated or lose cell service or internet access. Write down important phone numbers on a contact card to keep with your important documents or on your person. 

There’s an App for That!

Be prepared for anything with the Red Cross Emergency App and their Pet First Aid App. The Emergency App provides weather alerts, preparedness information, and shelter locations for disasters. The Pet First Aid App puts veterinary advice for emergencies as well as everyday pet care in the palm of your hand. Both are free and available on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.  For even more guidance, Ready.gov‘s pet preparedness page offers additional tips and checklists tailored to different types of animals and emergencies.

PREPARED FOR ANYTHING

Disasters are unpredictable, but your response to them doesn’t have to be. By making a plan, packing a kit, and keeping your contact information current, you’re giving your pets the best possible chance of staying safe and by your side when it matters most.