Be Prepared for an Emergency

Each of us is responsible for our own safety and survival during the first 72 hours of an emergency. The responsibility of caring for pets ultimately rests with the owner or foster parent, including during an emergency. It’s important to develop and create a 72-hour Dog Emergency Survival Kit, much like we would for ourselves and our families.  You should check the kit twice a year and update it as necessary. Ensure that there is always fresh water and food, medication and restock any items that may have been used from it.  Also consider “Pets Inside” stickers for your windows.  Placing these stickers on all entrance doors to your home will ensure that emergency responders and passersby will be vigilant just in case you were unable to evacuate your pet during an emergency.

Listed below are the basic first aid supplies you should have on hand and suggestion as to how to create a dog emergency survival kit.

Basic First-aid Supplies:

  • Absorbent gauze pads
  • Adhesive tape
  • Antiseptic wipes, lotion, powder or spray
  • Blanket (a foil emergency blanket)
  • Cotton balls or swabs
  • Gauze rolls
  • Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting—do this only when directed by a veterinarian or a poison-control expert)
  • Ice pack
  • Non-latex disposable gloves
  • Petroleum jelly (to lubricate the thermometer)
  • Rectal thermometer (your pet’s temperature should not rise above 103°F or fall below 100°F)
  • Scissors (with blunt ends)
  • Sterile non-stick gauze pads for bandages
  • Sterile saline solution (sold at pharmacies)
  • Tweezers

 Creating a Dog Emergency Survival Kit:

  •  At least a 72-hour supply of dog food, including bowls (preferably non-spill), a can opener, and spoon
    • Because your pet is less likely to understand food and water rations, it is best to stock up on canned, wet food. Food in cans keeps better, and your pet will be less thirsty if they get moisture from their meal, thus enabling you to stretch out the precious water supply.
  • At least a 72-hour supply of water for your family and your dog
  • Leash, muzzle, harness
  • Pet carrier or crate to allow for easy transport (and may be necessary in an emergency shelter)
  • Identification tags and microchip number (ensure contact info is kept up-to-date)
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency Contact List
    • Everyone in the affected community will be in survival mode, so you will want to have a list of helpful neighbors and/or emergency boarding facilities handy. Include a list of hotels that can accommodate dogs.
  • Proof of Ownership
  • Current photos of you with your pets and descriptions of your pets to help others identify them in case you and your pets become separated—and to prove that they are yours once you’re reunited
  • Medications & their instructions, medical records (including proof of vaccinations)
  • Veterinarian’s name and contact number
  • Information on your pet’s feeding schedule, temperament/behavior, medical concerns in case  you need to leave them somewhere
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Blankets, bedding, towels
  • Poop bags
  • Brush/Comb
  • Toys & Treats
  • Proper Cleaning Supplies
  • Paper Towel
  • Garbage Bags