Pet Emergency Kit: Top 10 Things to Pack

Last year, Jeffers provided an overview of how to prepare your pets for natural disasters. Now we’re taking a look at the top 10 items to include in your pet’s emergency preparedness kit. The specific contents of your kit may depend on the type of pet you have, but there are many important items every dog or cat owner should have close at hand. These essentials will ensure your pet is safe in the event of a medical emergency, severe weather event, separation from you, and more.

What to Pack in Your Pet Emergency Kit

Jeffers' Small Circle Shaped Identification Tag

1. Identification and Medical Records: While keeping records stored on a cell phone is convenient, you should carry photocopies with you as well. If you prefer paperless copies, store all information on a USB drive inside a waterproof container. Other information to keep on hand: a list of feeding times, medications, and behavioral issues. Helpful Tip: While it is important to have your contact information on your pet's tag, make sure to include information for someone outside of the area who'd be willing to take care of your animals on a second tag.
2. Medications and Supplements: If your animal requires daily medication, make sure to bring it along. Keep any medications that require refrigeration or a soft-sided cooler. If you've ever purchased vaccines from Jeffers before, our soft-sided coolers are a great reusable and lightweight option. Don't forget a container for sharps! For supplements, bring along enough of your pet's daily dose to last up to seven days.
3. Food and Water: Each individual pet should have enough food and water to last them between three to seven days. Don't forget to switch food out every two months to ensure freshness!
4. Travel Bowls: If possible, bring the bowls that your cat or dog normally uses for their meals. If you can't, look for bowls that easily fold up into smaller shapes and limit spills.
5. First Aid Kit: For a simple, compact solution, the ClotIT offers a pre-packaged First Aid Kit features all the basics. For a comprehensive list of items to include in a build-your-own kit, visit the Humane Society or ASPCA.
6. Comfort Items: Just like Linus from Peanuts, everyone has a comfort item. These items can help alleviate anxiety during stressful situations. Bringing along a pet's favorite toy as a comfort item serves double-duty as it will also keep them occupied.
7. Crate or Carrier: Shelters which allow pets, often require that they are kept in a crate for their own safety and the safety of others. Depending on the month, consider adding a battery-operated crate fan.
8. Beds or Blankets: Again, if you can bring items that your pet is already familiar with here, do so. If you can't, bring items that are easily portable that your pet can comfortably sleep on for a few nights.
9. Extra Collars/Leashes/Harnesses: Slip leashes are an excellent option for time-sensitive situations. When selecting a new collar, make sure important informational tags can easily transfer.
10. Waste Disposal Bags/Disposable Litter Box/Potty Pads: For dogs, make sure to have waste disposal bags. If weather prevents your dog from going outside, use potty pads to designate a bathroom area. If you can, purchase disposable litter boxes for your cat.

Other Pet Emergency Kit Items for Consideration

Though perhaps not as essential as those listed above, these important items can also provide peace of mind to you and your pet during stressful situations.

Thundershirts can help alleviate anxiety and travel-related stress.

1. 1. Flashlight: Keeping a flashlight on hand is good for multiple reasons. Don't forget some extra batteries!
   2. Calming Products: Adjusting to new surroundings can be difficult and often a pet is attuned to your own mood and energy.
   3. A Recent Photo of Each Pet: Preferably one with both you and the pet in the picture. This will help establish ownership in cases of mistaken identity.
   4. Multi-Powered Radio: Keeping in touch with the world, such as the and the local news and weather could be a lifesaver.
   5. Fresh Batteries: Not only will the flashlight need batteries, but so will the radio. If you're without power for a few days, you'll be needing extras.
   6. LED Safety Necklace: In addition to a collar, you might want to consider a safety necklace. Lighted safety necklaces and accessories offer additional protection and visibility, especially at night.

You may be planning on using your cell phone for a flashlight and news, but what if it gets damaged, lost, or you can't charge it because there's no power?

A Few Final Thoughts

Besides cats and dogs, ASPCA offers advice on transporting and preparing a wide variety of animals for disasters. Read more on disaster preparedness for horses and livestock at Jeffers Blog to help you and your animals prepare for inclement weather.