How to Create a Pet Disaster Evacuation Plan

Do you have a pet disaster evacuation plan in place for your family? This crucial plan ensures you know exactly what to do when–not if, but when–a disaster strikes. No matter where you live, it’s likely your family will experience a natural disaster, whether it’s a fire, flood, hurricane, earthquake, tornado, hurricane, or even a combination of disasters. According to The Pew Charitable Trusts, large-scale disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity across the globe.

If you aren’t prepared yet, don’t panic! Follow this guide to create your family’s pet evacuation plan.

Understanding the risks

Knowing the kind of disasters that impact your area is the first step toward pet disaster preparedness. You likely already know the types of situations that occur in your region, but if you’re unsure or new to your area, FEMA maintains a searchable database. Familiarize yourself with the different situations that you may face.

Does your area experience fires? If so, your pet disaster evacuation plan needs to include a failsafe backup plan for if your pet gets separated from you. If you’re in the path of hurricanes, do you know where a pet-friendly hotel is in case of an evacuation? Whether you’re near fires, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes, understanding the risks associated with your area’s disasters is the first step toward creating a safe plan.

Regardless of what disaster is in your area, you should also take into consideration the general dangers these events may pose to your pet: fear, anxiety, getting separated, and so on. Factor your pet’s personality into your considerations. If you have a noise-averse dog or a dog with high anxiety, for instance, make a plan to keep your dog comfortable in the chaos with tools like medications, Thundershirts, or a soundproofed crate.

Emergency preparedness kit for pets

Get ready for an emergency before the emergency. First, if your pet isn’t yet microchipped, call your vet now to set up that easy but vital appointment. It’s the single most reliable way to ensure your pet is returned to you in case you get separated from each other during the chaos of an emergency.

Then,  make an emergency preparedness kit for your pets that can be transported along with your supplies. The general rule of thumb is to prepare for three days’ worth of materials. That means food and water for at least three days, a backup supply of medications, a first aid kit, comfort items, an extra leash and collar, and any necessary supplies for your pet’s care, like a litter box and litter or cleaning supplies. Be sure you have bowls for your pet’s food and water, along with any treats or chews that can help alleviate boredom and anxiety. You should also have your pet’s crate or travel carrier. It’s also a good idea to have your pet’s microchip number and a recent photo in case of a separation. Label everything in permanent marker with your name and phone number.

Creating your pet disaster evacuation plan

A comprehensive evacuation plan requires a lot of planning–and paperwork!

Evacuating with pets can be tricky, especially if you don’t know where your nearest emergency pet-friendly shelters are. Your plan should include evacuation routes from your home to safe places, like nearby pet-friendly shelters and hotels. Plus, you should have a prepared list of contact information for trusted people you can turn to, like friends and family.

The logistics of your evacuation should be mapped in advance, with at least one or two alternate routes planned. Since you won’t necessarily have reliable cell service or charged batteries, paper copies of maps, addresses, and phone numbers can be helpful. Additionally, your plan should include a safe meeting spot outside your home that all your family members can get to should you get separated.

Your evacuation plan also needs to include important documentation about your pet stored in several different ways, like digitally in the cloud, on a USB drive, and even in hard copy in case batteries die or the internet goes down. Include documentation like vet records, microchip information, current photos, and contact information for both your local veterinarian and an emergency vet. The paperwork should be saved in a plastic folder or zip-top plastic bag inside your evacuation bag, which should be kept somewhere that’s easy to grab on your way out the door.

Tips for safe transportation and temporary housing

Traveling with your pet on a good day can sometimes be stressful and always requires a lot of planning. Traveling in an emergency adds a layer of complexity that is best planned for in advance.

Check your pet’s travel gear to ensure you have what you need for safe transport and that it’s all in good shape. This includes gear for safely restraining your pet during transport and a crate or carrier to hold your pet in a hotel or temporary housing situation. Some pet-friendly evacuation shelters require your pet to be crated, so know those guidelines before you go.

Plan for dealing with your pet’s stress during travel. Does your pet use specific anti-anxiety medication or tools? Make sure those are included in your evacuation kit. If your pet has a blanket or toy that provides comfort, and you have time to safely grab them on your way out the door, those familiar objects can help your pet feel safe. Create a safe space for your pet at your destination that includes those comfort items while ensuring your pet is completely secured.

No matter where you live, the reality is you will eventually be hit by a natural disaster. Understanding what disasters affect your area is the first step toward keeping you and your family safe. Know the risks, then make a comprehensive evacuation plan for your family, including your pets. Be prepared for contingencies and for your pet’s specific needs. Then, you can rest easy knowing you are ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Ensure your pet is in good health if disaster strikes by scheduling regular wellness appointments with your AAHA-accredited veterinarian. They can ensure that vaccinations stay up to date, refill necessary prescriptions, and discuss anxiety-alleviating tactics to help your pet better navigate an emergency situation.