Pet Disaster Preparedness Guide

Build a go-bag for every animal in your household and refresh it every 6 months.

• 7-day supply of food in airtight, waterproof container
• 7-day supply of bottled water (1 gallon per dog per day)
• Collapsible bowls for food and water
• Two weeks of medications + copies of prescriptions
• Spare leash, harness, and slip lead
• Sturdy crate or carrier labeled with your contact info
• Recent photos of your pet (printed and on your phone)
• Vaccination records, microchip number, and vet contact info
• Comfort item — favorite toy or worn t-shirt with your scent
• First-aid kit, towels, poop bags, and sanitation wipes

Plan the route, the destination, and the backup before the storm has a name.

• Identify two evacuation routes out of your area
• Pre-arrange a pet-friendly destination: hotel, family, or boarding facility
• Know which Red Cross shelters in your region accept pets
• Keep your vehicle fueled to at least half-tank during storm season
• Practice loading pets into your vehicle calmly and quickly
• Designate an out-of-area contact who can coordinate if you're separated
• Plan for livestock and large animals separately — they need lead time

Identification is the single biggest factor in successful reunification.

• Microchip every pet and register the chip with current contact info
• Update microchip registration any time you move or change phone numbers
• Use a collar with a current ID tag at all times — including indoors
• Add a temporary tag with evacuation destination contact during storms
• Consider a GPS collar for high-flight-risk dogs
• Photograph your pet from multiple angles, including any unique markings

Most general-population shelters do not allow pets. Plan accordingly.

• Pet-friendly hotels (Bring Fido, Red Roof Inn, La Quinta networks)
• Family or friends outside the projected impact area
• Boarding kennels and veterinary hospitals offering emergency boarding
• County co-located shelters (people + pets at the same facility)
• Faith-based and rescue partner emergency foster networks
• Never leave a pet tied up, locked in a yard, or alone in a vehicle

After the storm passes, the work isn't over — it's just shifted.

• Inspect your home and yard for hazards before letting pets roam
• Watch for stress behaviors: hiding, panting, appetite changes, GI upset
• Schedule a post-event vet visit if your pet was exposed to flood water, smoke, or debris
• Keep pets leashed outdoors — familiar landmarks and scents may be gone
• Update microchip records if your address has changed
• Document any losses or injuries for insurance and tax purposes