National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day – May 8th

We should never wait for the perfect day to make an emergency plan. However, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Citizen Corps has designated May 8th as National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day. Let’s take this opportunity to create a plan for our beloved pets.

If you already have your pet emergency kit, now is the time to pull it out and check the expiration dates. It’s also a good chance to ensure that you have all the necessary supplies.

In the event of a sudden evacuation, it’s important to be prepared to grab your pets and their emergency supplies quickly. FEMA recommends having a minimum of a 72-hour supply for your pets. You’ll usually know within that timeframe whether you can return home. Keep in mind that everyone will be in a similar situation, so store shelves can empty quickly.

Pet Emergency Packs

Pet Evac Pak is here to assist you in building your pet’s emergency kit. Here are the top 12 essentials we recommend:

• Food and Water: Include a 3 to 5-day supply of food and water. Avoid repackaging kibble, as it can start to spoil after three weeks. Instead, use our Mayday food, which has a 5-year shelf life.
• Bowls: for the food and water
• 5 days’ worth of your pet’s medications.
• Vaccination Records: Keep a copy of their vaccination records in their emergency pack in case you need to board them.
• Waterproof bag: for your pet’s medicines and vaccination records
• Basic Pet First Aid Supplies: Include bandages, pet-safe wound ointment, antiseptic wipes, and vet wrap.
• LED Night Light: This can be very useful if you need to evacuate in the dark.
• Identification Tag: Make sure your pet’s ID tag has their name and a current phone number, in case you get separated.
• Slip Lead or Collar and Leash: These are essential for safely transporting your pet.
• Waste Disposal Bags: For dogs, and remember that cats will need a litter box, litter, and a scoop.
• Toys and Treats: Bring along some familiar toys and treats to comfort your pet during stressful times.
• Warming Blanket: A warm blanket can retain up to 90% of your pet’s body heat if they get cold or wet.

It’s also important to have a crate or pet carrier readily available for emergencies. Keeping a list of important phone numbers in your bag can be very helpful. This list should include boarding facilities near your evacuation route, your veterinarian, pet-friendly hotels, and local animal control contacts.

If it seems like preparing for your pets is overwhelming or you haven’t started yet, Pet Evac Pak offers pre-assembled kits for both dogs and cats. If you have multiple pets, visit our custom page where you can create a pack tailored to your pets’ weights.

Make a plan with a close neighbor or friend to rescue your pets if you’re not home. Show them where you store your pet’s emergency kit.

By doing these few simple things now, you might save your pet’s life when disaster strikes.