The key to emergency preparedness for dogs is to prepare NOW! Check out the article and accompanying podcast episode. Prepare here!

Our hope is that you never have to use this information about emergency preparedness for dogs.

Even with that being said, the most important step to be ready for an emergency is to prepare now. Not when the emergency is happening, but now!

In this article (podcast audio and video versions found below), we will break down what you need to do to be ready for an emergency.

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Want to see more videos like this? Please click here.

ID your dog, and be sure that there are at least 2 methods of contact on your dog’s tags at all times

Also, be sure to microchip your dog. In an emergency, your dog may lose their collar, tags might get destroyed, etc.

Put together a disaster go-bag for your pet (or as part of your own go-bag)... it is best if all or at least the most important items are in a waterproof container (food, medications, etc.)

6-foot leash (30 foot as well if you have one)

Food and water for at least 5 days (dehydrated food is lighter)

Be sure to include some lightweight chews to keep your dog engaged as needed (bully sticks are a good option)

Current printed out photo of your dog with a description on the back

Include specific characteristics that might help them be identified

Written information with your pet’s feeding schedule, medication schedule, health issues, etc. in case you have to leave your dog with someone

Light/light-up collar or something similar

Have a plan (use your notes app on your phone and share it with a trusted friend or family member) and have an emergency helper as part of the plan if you are out of town when a disaster hits

That plan should include where you will try and get to

If you are able to get out, where you will make a new home base

Some people choose a church, a stadium, or a large landmark in their area but of course, this will depend on the severity of the disaster

Include a list of pet-friendly places in your surrounding area (ie hotels, etc.)

Get a Rescue Alert Sticker or make one on your own

It should include the animals in your home

If you have time, write evacuated across the sticker so people know not to search for your pets

If possible, evacuate early and take your dog with you. If it’s too dangerous for you, it is too dangerous for your pet

If you are unable to evacuate, consider the following:

Close off areas where your dog may try to escape to

Keep your dog on a leash… you do NOT want your dog to be able to escape from you, no matter how scared they get

Have a safe room with your “go-bag” in case you are unable to get to other parts of your home

AFTER THE EMERGENCY (and you are still in the area)

Be patient with your dog. If you are scared/nervous, they probably are as well!

Don’t let your dog roam free if there is still debris, fallen down homes, etc. There likely will be glass and other dangerous items. So keep your pup near you!

In some cases, wildlife will end up near where you are. Do your best to keep a distance from them.

Above all, have a plan, keep your dog's ID and vaccines up to date, and prepare a go-bag for your dog!

Emergency Preparedness for Dogs | Pupford