Assembling a Pet Disaster Preparedness Kit
Food and water:
- A one- to two-week supply of dry or canned food of the brand your pets usually eat. Be sure to replace the food according to its expiration date. Include a spoon, food dish and can opener (for canned food). Record your pets' eating habits (amount and times) as well as any allergies your pet may have and file together with the other paperwork in your kit. Store the food in a waterproof and protected bag or case.
- Collapsible or travel bowls are easy to store.
- A one- to two-week supply of water in gallon-sized plastic containers. Be sure to replace water regularly to ensure freshness.
Paperwork
- Photographs, in case you need to distribute pictures if your pets get lost.
- Copies of important veterinary documents, such as vaccination records, medical history, medical conditions, records of important test results (FELV/FIV).
- Names, addresses and phone numbers of your veterinarian and an alternate veterinarian. Write out a release statement authorizing medical treatments for your pets. Write down your pets' insurance policy numbers, if you have pet insurance.
- Copies of registration information, adoption papers, proof-of-purchase, microchip, tattoo, or other identification information.
- List of emergency contacts including names, relationship to you/your pet, phone numbers and addresses.
Other
- Cleaning supplies to clean crates and/or litter boxes.
- A one- to two-week supply of cat litter, plus a small plastic litter box and litter scoop. You can opt for a disposable litter box that comes pre-made with litter.
- A two-week reserve supply of any pet medications. List each pet separately and include the dose and frequency for each medication. Include directions on how to administer. If possible, keep the medication in the original package that it came in. Replace according to expiration date. Do not forget reserve doses of flea and tick control and heartworm prevention.
- Spare or extra collars, harnesses or leashes.
- Bedding or pet blankets.
- Identification tags, ideally with temporary location or contact information on them.
- Brushes/combs, other grooming supplies.
- Toys.
- Animal crates or carriers labeled with your contact information. Ensure the crates/carriers are safe for your pets (latches and bolts should be secure) and that your pets have room to move around.
- Pet first-aid kit.