Pets are members of the family. Make sure to include pets when developing your family emergency plan.
Making arrangements before an emergency will increase your pet’s chances for survival.
Assemble a pet emergency survival kit and be ready to take your pet and their kit with you in the event you have to evacuate.
Prepare a pet emergency survival kit and keep it with your family kit. Be sure to check the expiry date of contents at least twice a year.
For dogs and cats:
- food, water, bowls, manual can opener and spoon
- up-to-date ID tag
- current photo of you and your pet
- copy of medical records/vaccinations
- medications and first aid kit
- leash, collar or harness
- litter scoop and bags
- carrier large enough to transport and house your pet
If safety permits, pets should not be left behind during an evacuation as they may be lost, injured or even killed during an emergency. Plan ahead to ensure that you have a safe place to take your pet.
- Find out about your municipality’s evacuation location and related pet policies.
- Contact pet friendly hotels/motels outside your immediate area. Check their policy on accepting pets during an emergency.
- Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they could shelter your pet during an emergency.
Remember – Don’t forget your pet!