For many of us, our pets are part of the family. Protecting your furry friends during an emergency such as a fire, flood, or hurricane depends largely on emergency planning done today. Below is some helpful pet advice compiled by FEMA, The American Kennel Club, and the ASPCA that will help make sure your pets are planned for during an unexpected event.

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Get a Pet Emergency Supply Kit

Just like your family's kit, your pet should have an emergency supply kit as well. First, pack basic survival needs for your pet such as food, water, and any essential medicines. Remember to have these on hand as well as pack some in a travel kit in case you're forced to leave your home in a hurry.

• Food:
  Keep at least three days worth of food in an airtight, waterproof container.


• Water:
  Keep three days worth of water in addition to any you've stored for yourself or your family (don't forget a bowl).


• Medicine:
  Keep an extra supply of your pets medicine and any required records in a waterproof container.


• Collar, Harness, and Leash:
  Frightened pets often bolt through open doors. Your pet should be wearing a collar with harness and rabies tag at all times. Store a backup collar, leash, and ID tag in your kit.


• Sanitation:
  Include extra litter or litterbox. Store newspaper, paper towels, and trash bags somewhere to be used for sanitation. Whatever you need to make sure you environment is unhindered by your pet's waste.


• Photos:
  Keep a picture of you and your pet together tucked away in case you get separated. In a situation where outside documentation might not be available, this will be your best way to prove ownership.


• Familiar Items:
  Put favorite toys, bedding, or treats in your kit. Include anything small that might help reduce the stress of your pet.

Have an Emergency Plan

Depending on the type of emergency, the first important decision is whether to stay or leave. You should already have a plan for both situations.

• Create an Escape Plan:
  Plan on how you will gather your pets and get away. If you are going to a public shelter, keep in mind your animals may not be allowed inside. Find out if your nearest emergency shelter accepts pets and make alternative plans (leave them at a friends house in advance, find a boarding facility, ect.) before it's too late.


• Use the Buddy System:
  Share your plans with a neighbor and make sure either of you are ready to step in and take care for their pet if an emergency occurs while you are absent. Show them your kit, evacuation plan, and any other important needs.


• Discuss Planning with your Vet:
  Talk to your vet about what is best for your pet. Discuss permanent identification options like micro-chipping. Get information about other vet services in your evacuation area.

Understand Emergencies

Assembling kits and evacuation routes is the easy part. Staying informed on the types of emergencies that can occur in your area is a long term expectation. Keep informed on what your local government has prepared for an emergency situation and be ready to act on their plan as well as yours. For more information on emergency and what your city is doing, visit our News and Information page or any of the links below:

• CDC Pet Safety in Emergencies
• READY.gov Pets & Animals Safety
• Leon County Animal Control and Disaster Information
• American Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty (ASPCA)

Facts and statistics provided by FEMA, ASPCA, and The American Kennel Club.