Dog Disaster Kits
Here are some items you want to be sure to include in your dog or puppy’s disaster kit:
You should keep canned food in your kit, as it lasts longer – just be sure to check the expiration dates regularly. Nothing is worse than a can with no opener, so be sure to have one of those too, along with a bowl and a spoon. If your dog can’t eat a full can in one sitting, remember to keep a can lid handy as well.
You should have at least 3 days worth of water in your kit (don’t forget a bowl!) We like this collapsible kind, but any container could work.
Disasters are scary! Having familiar smells will help keep your dog calm. Putting an old blanket and favorite toy will help your dog get through the stress of a disaster situation.
In a disaster situation, you might not have time to search around the house for your dog’s leash and collar. Keeping one in your kit could save you precious minutes to evacuate. Don’t forget some bags to clean up after your pet!
Keep up to date medical records on your pet, including vaccine history. Some emergency shelters may require it to house your dog. Also, keep a week’s worth of your pet’s medication in your kit – watch the expiration dates!
Keep several copies of a current, color photo of both you and your pet. The photo should show your pet’s face as well as as much of its body as possible. You may need to post them as lost posters, or as proof of ownership to reclaim your pet if it gets lost.
Jiffy Tags are a great way to protect your pet if you are on vacation when disaster strikes. Just fill them in with the location you are temporarily staying, and attach to his collar alongside his regular ID tag.
A basic First Aid kit could prove useful in a disaster. Much of what you find in a human kit is fine for your pet as well, so you don’t necessarily have to purchase a special one just for him.
You may need to evacuate to a nearby hotel or motel. Keep a list of pet friendly places in your kit so you know where to go.
Pet Friendly Hotels in Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties
Print your own Emergency Wallet card to keep on you in case of emergency
Want a more complete list of items to add to your kit? Click here
