Emergency Preparedness for Pets

Pets can be skittish and frightened during an emergency situation, making it difficult for you to focus on other vital tasks. Taking the following steps now can help protect your pets – and the rest of your family – in the case of emergency.

Beyond the items you need for your immediate family, pet-specific items to add to or keep with your emergency kit include: a sturdy crate or carrier, ID tag and collar, a leash, food and water for each pet (4L/day per average dog, 1L/day per average cat), non-spill bowls, a litter box, special medications, a pet first-aid kit, your emergency phone numbers, pet file (which contains contact info for your vet, a copy of any licenses, vaccination records, and contact info for friends who could house your pet, a photo and other identification information), newspapers and paper towels.

Train your pet to enter its cage on command. That way, when an emergency strikes, you can command it to enter its cage and can keep track of its whereabouts. Make sure it has an ID tag and collar at all times, in case it gets separated from you. Become familiar with your neighbours and their pets, and collaborate on a neighbourhood plan including selecting a neighbour who will take care of your pets if you are not at home during an emergency. Keep a list of pet-friendly places your pet could go if you need to leave your home, as many emergency shelters do not accept pets.

If an emergency happens, try to take your pet with you. If you cannot do so, leave a highly-visible sign in the window, lots of water in a tip-proof container and dry food in timed feeders. Do not tie or cage your pet, as its being able to escape the house will increase its chance of survival in your absence.

This tip has been brought to you by Public Safety Canada and Public Health Agency of Canada.