Why emergency pet food, you ask? It’s a GREAT question! What is the difference between my pet’s regular dry kibble and emergency pet food?
First is the shelf life; most pet food comes with a 1-year to 18-month shelf life, while emergency pet food comes with a 5-year shelf life. This alone can save money and time by not having to rotate the food but once every five years.
According to dog nutrition experts, once a bag of dry kibble has been opened, it only has about 2 to 3 weeks before it starts to go bad. It can last slightly longer if kept in a cool, dry place.
Here is why: Pet food bags are designed to keep kibble stable and safe for your pet to eat. But, when a bag is opened and the kibble is exposed to air, the oils and fats in the food start to react with oxygen, gradually causing them to break down and eventually turn rancid. Gross Yuk!
Emergency pet food like Mayday dog and cat food comes in individual sealed 8-ounce pouches keeping it fresh for up to 5 years. Isn’t that the point of having an emergency go-bag is to be ready to go at a moment’s notice? If you use your pet’s own food, make sure you are rotating it: for unopened bags based on the expiration date on the bag. If it’s open, rotate it every 2 to 3 weeks.
It’s important to note the expiration dates on your pet’s food. It’s normally printed near the barcode on your pet food package and should be tossed once the expiration date has passed.
We understand that pets can have food allergies as well as be sensitive to change. We recommend you leave the Mayday food in your pet go-bag, and if you have time before evacuating, add your pet’s dietary needs.
Prepare today to keep your pet safe tomorrow!
Hello Michelle,
you are right. The special thing about emergency food is that it carries a longer shelf life. I would like to add my thoughts on emergency food is that, while travelling carrying emergency foods is also a best option to feed the dogs instead carry regular food that can be rotten anytime.
That is a great point! Thanks for your comments!