Prepare Your Pet

Never leave your pets behind in an emergency! Instead, take the following steps to ensure the safety of your furry companions.

Plan ahead, and keep these essential items in a portable container in an accessible place in case you need to evacuate:

  • Carrier for each pet
  • 1 week’s supply of food and water
  • Food and water dishes
  • Leashes or harnesses
  • Medications and medical records
  • List of pet-friendly shelters
  • Current photo of pets in case they get lost
  • Health records

Public shelters for people cannot accept pets due to health and safety regulations, with the exception of service animals assisting people who have disabilities. Contact possible shelters for pets and make a list with phone numbers. Here are some suggestions:

  • Animal shelters
  • Veterinarians
  • Pet clinics
  • Professional boarding kennels
  • Pet-friendly motels
  • Friends or relatives outside the affected area

Other considerations for your animals:

  • Microchip your pets for permanent identification
  • Ensure pets are current on vaccinations
  • Arrange for someone to pick up your pets in case you’re not home when disaster strikes
  • Make sure your pets wear collars with ID tags
  • Snakes can be placed in a pillowcase but must be moved to more secure housing as soon as possible
  • Horses and livestock need brand inspections before crossing state or county lines