How to Create a Pet Emergency Plan

A Guide from One Pet Owner to Another

Emergencies such as wildfires, hurricanes, winter storms, and sudden power outages can strike without warning. In those moments, your pets depend on you to act fast—but thinking clearly in a crisis is much easier if you’ve prepared ahead of time. Putting a pet emergency plan in place can save lives, reduce stress, and offer peace of mind for your whole family (furry, feathered, scaly, or otherwise).

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started, with practical advice and plenty of empathy for the very real emotions that come with protecting our animal companions.

1. **Make a List of Emergency Contacts

Write down and keep handy a list of essential phone numbers, including:

• Your veterinarian and a local emergency animal hospital
• Local animal shelters and rescue groups
• Trusted friends or family members who could help rescue or board your pet
• Pet-friendly hotels and boarding centers, both near and a bit farther away in case of widespread evacuations

Store a copy of this list in your phone, in your pet’s emergency kit, and in a prominent spot at home. Let every member of your household know where it is.

2. **Plan Where to Go

Emergencies may force you to leave home quickly, and some human shelters don’t accept pets. So:

• Investigate local hotels and motels that accept animals
• Ask friends or relatives if they’d care for your pet in a crisis
• Contact animal shelters to learn about emergency options for pets
• Find out if community shelters take pets or only service animals

Keep a written list alongside your other emergency contacts.

3. **Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit

A pet emergency kit should be ready to grab in an instant. Include:

• Food and water: Enough for 3–7 days, plus bowls
• Medications and instructions
• Leash, harness, or carrier
• Waste supplies: Poop bags or litter box/litter
• Comfort items: A favorite toy, blanket, or item with your scent
• Medical records/vaccination history and a recent photo
• **Up-to-date ID (collar and microchip number, if available)

Check your kit every few months. Swap out expired food, water, and medications. Update documents and photos if anything changes.

4. **Keep Identification Up to Date

If your pet is frightened during an emergency, it’s easy for them to get lost. Help them find their way home:

• Make sure your pet always wears a collar with your current phone number
• Keep your microchip information up to date in the registry
• Store recent photos of your pet on your phone and printed in your kit

Talk with your vet about microchipping if you haven’t already—it’s quick, safe, and greatly increases your odds of a happy reunion if you’re separated.

5. **Make a Plan for Every Type of Pet

Different pets have different needs:

• Birds: Pack a travel cage, cover, extra food/water, paper towels, and care notes.
• Reptiles: Prepare a secure carrier/tank, heat packs, water sprayer, and care items.
• Small Mammals: Use a travel-safe cage, include bedding/hay/pellets, water bottles, and cleaning supplies.
• Fish: These are hard to move. If you must evacuate, arrange for a neighbor or local pet shop to care for them, or get a battery-powered air pump for short-term emergencies.

6. **Practice Your Emergency Plan

Practice makes perfect—and reduces anxiety for everyone!

• Load your pet into their carrier or car, so they grow comfortable with it.
• Take short drives with your kit to check that nothing’s missing.
• Hold family “evacuation drills” so everyone knows their job.
• Teach your pet cues for coming quickly, or other needed behaviors.

Familiarity helps minimize panic for both pets and people.

7. **Choose a Backup Caregiver

Sometimes you can’t get home in time. Give a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member:

• A house key or instructions for emergency access
• A copy of your emergency plan and where your kit is stored
• Your vet’s details and care instructions

Leave written feeding and medication notes somewhere obvious, just in case.

Extra Tips to Keep Pets Safe

• Never leave your pets behind in an evacuation. If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.
• Keep calm—pets pick up on your emotions, so your confidence helps them feel secure.
• Stay informed by monitoring local news and official alerts.

**Be Ready, Not Sorry

The best time to make a pet emergency plan is right now. Being prepared means you’ll have what you need—and your pets will have you—when it matters most.
Start small, go step by step, and remember: your efforts today could mean everything in a crisis. Your pets trust you, and with a solid plan, you can be ready to protect them, whatever comes your way.

Citations

American Veterinary Medical Association: Disaster Preparedness for Pets
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Prepare Your Pets for Disasters
ASPCA: Disaster Preparedness

(Note: For the most authoritative, region-specific advice, check with your local veterinary clinic, shelter, or animal services.)

Related Topics:

How are veterinary teams involved in disaster response planning for pets?

Veterinary teams have an essential, multi-faceted role in disaster response planning for pets. Their expertise, preparedness, and compassion directly enhance the safety and well-being of animals during emergencies, as well as the resilience of pet-owning families and communities.

Key Roles of Veterinary Teams in Disaster Planning

1. Providing Medical Care in Emergencies

• Veterinary teams set up field clinics and mobile hospitals at temporary animal shelters or disaster sites, delivering urgent medical care to injured, sick, or stressed pets and livestock. This includes wound management, triage, administering medications, and providing necessary surgeries.
• They also conduct herd health assessments and monitor for outbreaks of disease among displaced animals, helping to prevent the spread of illness in shelter or evacuation settings.

2. Evacuation and Search-and-Rescue Support

• Veterinarians and trained staff often assist animal rescue teams in locating, calming, and safely evacuating pets from danger zones, including animals left behind or needing extra help due to injuries or stress.
• They help with microchip scanning, identification, and reuniting lost pets with their families.

3. Supporting Emergency Shelters and Temporary Boarding

• Veterinary teams operate or support emergency animal shelters, ensuring animals receive daily care, food, water, and medical attention, as well as tracking health records and managing infectious disease risks.
• Some veterinary clinics serve as emergency boarding facilities, particularly when human shelters cannot accommodate pets.

4. Pet-Inclusive Disaster Planning and Education

• Veterinarians play a key role in pet disaster preparedness education: advising pet owners on building emergency kits, updating identification, and making evacuation plans during regular wellness visits.
• Many pet owners look to their veterinarians as trusted sources for advice and step-by-step preparedness planning.
• Veterinarians distribute checklists, offer preparedness workshops, and sometimes participate in community drills.

5. Collaboration with Community and Government Agencies

• Veterinary professionals work closely with local and state emergency management agencies, animal shelters, and response groups to coordinate disaster plans that include animals.
• University-based veterinary emergency teams and organizations (like World Vets, the UC Davis California Veterinary Emergency Team, and the University of Florida VETS) deploy to disaster areas with self-sustained mobile hospitals and teams, sometimes crossing state lines for major events.
• They help implement policy changes (such as the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act) and advocate for pets to be included in official emergency plans.

6. Disease Prevention and Mental Health

• Veterinary teams play a crucial part in disease surveillance, vaccination, and control during disasters.
• They also support the emotional well-being of both pets and people during and after emergencies.

Veterinary Involvement: Before, During, and After Disasters

• Before: Helping families create disaster plans, preparing shelters, practicing drills, and stocking emergency supplies.
• During: Deploying teams for medical care, search-and-rescue, shelter operations, and public communication.
• After: Ongoing medical support, reunification efforts, care for affected animals, and post-event recovery efforts.

Why Their Role Matters

Including veterinarians in disaster planning:

• Increases survival rates and reunification of pets with their owners
• Reduces disease transmission and suffering among animals
• Supports community mental health and resilience
• Ensures pet needs are not overlooked in crisis situations

In short: Veterinary teams are at the heart of disaster response for pets, offering vital medical care, leadership in planning, and trusted guidance for families and communities, every step of the way.

What are the most critical items to include in a pet evacuation kit?
The most critical items to include in a pet evacuation kit are:

• Food and water: At least 3–7 days’ supply of your pet’s usual food in airtight, waterproof containers; and a safe, fresh water supply (minimum 3 days). Don’t forget a manual can opener if needed, and bowls for both food and water.
• Medications and medical records: A supply of any prescription medicines your pet requires (with instructions), plus copies of up-to-date vaccination and veterinary records in a waterproof container.
• Collar with ID tag and leash/harness: Your pet should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your contact details. Bring a sturdy leash, harness, and a backup if possible.
• Carrier or crate: A comfortable, well-ventilated crate or carrier for each pet, labeled with your contact info. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand and turn around.
• Sanitation supplies: Litter and litter box for cats, waste bags for dogs, paper towels, cleaning supplies, and disinfectant to help manage waste and keep the environment clean.
• First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes/solution, gauze, tweezers, gloves, and a pet first-aid reference. Ask your veterinarian about special needs.
• Current photo of your pet: Recent photos (digital and printed) of your pet—including one with you in the photo—for identification if you are separated.
• Familiar/comfort items: Favorite toys, bedding, or a blanket with your scent can help reduce your pet’s stress during evacuation.
• Important documents: Copies of microchip registration, licenses, ownership, and a list of emergency contacts (vet, shelters, pet-friendly hotels).

Additional useful items:

• Flashlight and spare batteries.
• Grooming supplies (brush, pet wipes).
• Rescue alert sticker for your home alerting first responders that pets are inside.

Regularly check and update your kit—replace expired food, water, and medications, and keep info and photos current.

Including these essentials in your pet evacuation kit will ensure you are prepared to meet your pet’s basic needs and increase the chances of staying safe together during an emergency.

How can I develop a disaster plan that covers both my family and pets?

To develop a disaster plan that covers both your family and pets, aim for a unified, practical approach that ensures no one is left behind—human or animal. Here’s a warm, step-by-step guide to get you ready for the unexpected:

1. Involve the Whole Family (Pets Included!)

Discuss Disaster Scenarios:
Hold a family meeting to talk about natural disasters common in your area (fires, floods, hurricanes, power outages, etc.) and how these could affect your home, routines, and animals.

Assign Responsibilities:
Decide who will be in charge of each pet, family member, and specific duties—like grabbing the emergency kit, handling communication, or carrying the carrier. Kids can be included with age-appropriate tasks.

2. Create an Emergency Communication & Evacuation Plan

Communication:

• List primary and emergency contacts (include two outside your area).
• Decide how family will contact each other and where to meet if separated.
• Include neighbors, friends, or relatives willing to help with pets if needed.

Evacuation:

• Map out evacuation routes and safe meeting points for both family and pets.
• Identify pet-friendly hotels, veterinary clinics, boarding centers, or shelters in advance—many shelters don’t accept pets.
• Practice your routes and evacuation procedures with all family members (including pets).

3. Prepare Emergency Kits for Humans and Pets

For Your Family:
Standard survival items: food, water, medication, first aid, safety gear, important documents, cash, etc.

For Pets:

• Food and water (minimum 3–5 days)
• Medications and medical records (copies in waterproof container)
• Collars with up-to-date ID tags, current microchip info, and leash/harness
• Sturdy carrier/crate for each pet
• Sanitation supplies: waste bags, litter box/litter, cleaning wipes
• Recent photos of you and your pet together (for ID)
• Comfort items: favorite toy or blanket
• Written care instructions, feeding routines, and vet contact info

Store these kits in an easy-to-reach spot and check/refresh them every few months.

4. Shelter in Place and Evacuation Readiness

• Safe Room: Choose an interior room for sheltering with pets away from windows, stocked with your kits.
• Transport: Practice placing pets in carriers and getting everyone into the car efficiently.
• Backup Help: Arrange for trusted friends/neighbors to access your home and care for your pets if you can’t get home in time. Share your plans and location of emergency supplies.

5. Practice and Review Regularly

• Run family drills—including pets!—so everyone knows their role and routine.
• Make sure pets are comfortable with their carriers and practice quick exits.
• Review your plan, contact info, and kits twice a year or when circumstances change (move, new pet, etc.).

6. Compassion and Communication Count

• Include your pets in every step; if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.
• Talk openly about worries or special needs (children, elderly, pets with medical or behavioral needs).
• Keep important info and kits well-labeled—first responders will appreciate clear instructions for any animal left temporarily at home.

Quick Checklist to Keep on Your Fridge or in Your Kits

What to Prepare	For Family	For Pets
Emergency contacts	✓	✓ (vet, animal shelter, backup caregiver)
Evacuation plan/routes	✓	✓ (pet-friendly options)
Emergency kit	✓	✓ (food, meds, ID, crate, comfort, photos)
Important documents	✓ (IDs, insurance)	✓ (vac records, microchip, vet records, photos)
Practice drills	✓	✓ (with pets, carriers, loading in car)
Backup caregivers	✓	✓
Safe room at home	✓	✓ (with supplies and containment)

What resources are available to help veterinarians prepare for emergencies?

Veterinarians have access to a wealth of specialized resources and training to help them prepare for emergencies that could impact their practice, patients, and communities. Here are some of the top resources available:

1. Professional Organizations and Preparedness Guides

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA):
  • The AVMA offers a comprehensive suite of disaster preparedness tools, including the “Save the Whole Family” guide for companion animals and “Small Farm Preparedness” for large animals. These provide checklists, disaster plan templates, and guidance for clinics and clients.
  • The AVMA also offers a downloadable workbook specifically for writing a disaster plan for veterinary clinics.
  • The AVMA Veterinary First Responder Certificate Program verifies competency in disaster response and helps veterinarians and students build necessary skills for response and credentialing.

2. Specialized Training & Continuing Education

• USDA‐APHIS Veterinary Services Training: Offers webinars, videos, and multiyear plans covering animal disease emergencies and the principles of the National Incident Management System.
• FEMA & National Incident Command System (ICS) Courses: FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute provides free online courses such as IS-10 (“Animals in Disasters: Awareness and Preparedness”) and IS-11 (“Community Planning”), as well as ICS training critical for deployment and incident response.
• University Programs: Institutions like Texas A&M and LSU offer rotations, wet labs, and simulations as part of veterinary curriculums, sometimes in collaboration with local or state animal response teams. These experiences teach real-world disaster response skills to students and graduates.
• Code 3 Associates, ASPCApro, and American Humane Society also offer disaster response and emergency preparedness training for animal responders and veterinary professionals.

3. Emergency Response Teams & Volunteer Corps

• Veterinary Emergency Response Teams (VET/VMRC): Teams like those at Texas A&M and Indiana provide boots-on-the-ground support, medical care during disasters, and serve as models for state or national deployment.
• AVMA’s Veterinary Medical Assistance Teams (VMAT): Although now reorganized, these teams historically provided national veterinary disaster response and training for responders.
• Florida Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps and State Animal Response Teams: Register and train veterinarians for disaster deployments, including sheltering, treatment, and disease surveillance.

4. Simulation Exercises & Drills

• FAO Simulation Exercises: Free online certification courses guide veterinarians through disaster scenario planning, drills, and after-action evaluation, supporting core preparedness competencies.
• Disaster drills and virtual training: Used at universities and by specialty groups to cultivate team management, situational awareness, and continuity of care skills in disaster situations.

5. Mental Health and Business Continuity

• Mental health training: Resources like the UF IFAS Disasters & Mental Health course and the GRAZE online modules help veterinary teams prepare for the emotional impact of disaster response, promoting resilience and well-being.
• Practice/business continuity resources: AVMA and other organizations offer guides to help veterinarians maintain operations and client support during emergencies.

Actionable Tips for Veterinary Teams

• Enroll in NIMS/ICS and FEMA emergency management courses to ensure eligibility for deployment.
• Download and use AVMA’s free disaster preparedness guides and checklists for both clinics and clients.
• Seek out university-based or association-led disaster drills and wet labs to gain practical experience.
• Volunteer with state or national veterinary emergency response teams.
• Regularly update your personal disaster plan—including plans for your own family and animals—and practice implementation.

How do local disaster plans integrate pet safety and rescue efforts?

Local disaster plans have become much more pet-inclusive in recent years, thanks largely to laws like the federal Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act, lessons learned from major disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, and strong advocacy from pet owners, veterinarians, and animal welfare groups. Here’s how community emergency plans typically integrate pet safety and rescue efforts:

1. Inclusion in Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs)

Most localities now embed pet evacuation and shelter plans into their official Emergency Operations Plans. This is required for towns, counties, and states to receive certain federal disaster funds. These plans must describe:

• How pets and service animals will be evacuated
• Where they will be safely sheltered
• What resources (food, medical supplies) are needed for animals during disasters

2. Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelters

Many communities designate pet-friendly shelters—sometimes “co-sheltering” pets with their families, but often housing animals in a separate but nearby area to comply with public health and safety guidelines. The American Red Cross and similar organizations sometimes coordinate with animal services so evacuees and their pets are kept close together, reducing trauma for both.

• Shelters typically require owners to bring proof of vaccinations and some basic supplies for their pets.
• Service animals are always welcome wherever people are sheltered.

3. Local Animal Response Teams

Local disaster plans coordinate with Animal Emergency Response Teams—sometimes called CARTs (Community/County Animal Response Teams), SARTs (State Animal Response Teams), or similar. These teams are trained to:

• Rescue animals from disaster zones (e.g., fire, flood, or hurricane areas)
• Transport pets and livestock to safety
• Set up and operate temporary pet shelters
• Provide medical triage and reunification with families

Many team members receive specialized training (often from FEMA or state agencies) to ensure safe, humane rescue and care for all animals in a crisis.

4. Planning Resources and Public Education

Emergency plans often include community outreach efforts—distributing educational materials, hosting preparedness fairs, participating in evacuation drills that include pets, and providing online and physical guides for families. Local governments may:

• Encourage pet owners to microchip animals and keep ID tags up to date
• Advise families on preparing pet evacuation kits
• Run pet preparedness campaigns before storm seasons or known hazards

5. Legal and Financial Support

The PETS Act ensures that federal reimbursement is available for costs related to rescuing, transporting, sheltering, and tracking pets during disasters—motivating local officials to develop robust animal response plans and train staff in advance.

Key Takeaways for Pet Owners

• Check with your local emergency management office to find out where pet-friendly shelters are and what the requirements are for animals to be admitted.
• Identify and meet local requirements—such as vaccinations, pet identification, and readiness of your pet evacuation kit.
• Get involved: Many local disaster animal response teams welcome volunteers and will provide training.