In the event of extreme weather or a disaster, would you know what to do to protect your pet?

Leaving pets out of evacuation plans can put pets, pet owners, and first responders in danger. Even if you try to create a safe place for them, pets left behind during a disaster are likely to be injured, lost, or worse.

Be prepared: make a plan and prepare a disaster kit for your pet(s)!

Before an Emergency

Make A Plan

• Make sure your pet(s) wear collars and tags with up-to-date contact information and other identification.
• Microchip your pet(s) – this is one of the best ways to ensure that you and your pet are reunited if you are separated. Always be sure to register the microchip with the manufacturer and keep your contact information up to date with the microchip company.
• Keep a leash and/or carrier near the exit.
• Make sure you have proper equipment for pets to ride in the car (carriers, harnesses, pet seatbelts).
• Prepare a Pet Disaster Kit so evacuation will go smoothly for your entire family. Ask your veterinarian for help in putting together your pet’s veterinary records.

Create Emergency Kits For Your Pet(s)

Prepare an emergency kit for your pet ahead of time. Kits should include:

• A pet carrier for each of your pets (write your pet’s name, your name, and contact information on each carrier).
• Food and water for at least 2 weeks for each pet
• For cats: litter box and litter
• For dogs: plastic bags for poop
• Medications for at least 2 weeks
• Medical records, including record of vaccination for rabies and other diseases, prescription medications, and medical history.
• Sturdy leashes or harnesses
• Microchip number
• Contact information (cell phone, work phone, home phone) of owner and close relatives or friends

During An Emergency

Sheltering During an Evacuation

• Remember, during a disaster, what is good for you is good for your pet. If you leave your pets behind, they may be lost, injured – or worse. Never leave a pet chained outdoors.
• Contact your emergency management office and ask there are accommodations for owners and their pets. If accommodations are needed for your pet(s) only:
  • Contact local veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, local animal shelters, family or friends outside the evacuation area, or a pet-friendly hotel, particularly along evacuation routes.
  • Visit the Humane Society to find a shelter in your area.
• Remember to take your pet’s emergency kit with you.
• Learn what to expect if you take your pet to an evacuation center.

Sheltering in Place

When sheltering at home with your pet, make sure the room chosen is pet-friendly:

• Select a safe room, preferably an interior room with no (or few) windows.
• Remove any toxic chemicals or plants.
• Close off small areas where frightened cats could get stuck in (such as vents or beneath heavy furniture).

Diseases Can Spread between Pets and People During a Natural Disaster

Natural disasters can contribute to the spread of some diseases. Exposure to bad weather conditions, stagnant water, wildlife or unfamiliar animals, and overcrowding in shelters can put your pet at risk for getting sick. Some of these illnesses can be spread between pets and people (also known as zoonotic diseases). Some common disaster-related diseases that pets can pass to people are the following: rabies, leptospirosis, and diseases spread by mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks.