Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
You can't ever predict when an emergency will happen, but you can be prepared for one. Whether it be a financial crisis, personal crisis, a natural disaster, or a pandemic - now is the time to plan ahead and ensure that everyone in your family has the support they need.
Have Your Pet Care Plan Ready
Download the pet care plan template below, complete and give to your back-up caregivers.
Other tips:
- Have 2-3 back-up caregivers
- Ensure back-up caregivers have each others contact information
- If you don't have back-up caregivers, ensure that this document is placed in a highly visible spot in your house (ie the fridge)
- Ensure your pet care plan stays up to date.
- If your pet has a change in food, medication, vet, medical information etc be sure to update your plan accordingly.
HAVE A PET EMERGENCY KIT PACKED
Have your pet emergency kit packed and ready to go. In an evacuation situation, always take your pet with you. Your kit should include:
- Photo of you with your pet(s)
- Emergency contact information and back-up caregiver information
- Travel bag or carrier and a blanket/bed
- If using a travel carrier or crate, remember that a pet should be able to stand up and lift its head naturally, and turn around comfortably.
- Extra harness/leash
- Three days of food and water, bowls
- Medications
- Vet info, Vaccination history/certificates
- Disposable litter trays
- Litter or paper towel
- Something to put it all in! Backpack, rolling suitcase etc.
Resources for Pet Owners in Need
Do you know what resources are available to you if you are struggling to afford vet care? Emergency vet care? Pet food and supplies?
Check out our resource guide for pet owners in need and find:
- Tips on where to find support programs and service based on your emergency
- Items to prepare in advance of an emergency
