Stock up on the following pet supplies to put together a well-stocked disaster preparedness kit that will help you care for your canine companions during an emergency. Making the effort now may make all the difference in the world. You can find many of the supplies and medications listed at VetDepot.com. (For a PDF version of the species specific disaster kit shopping list click here)
Adjust the amounts based on how many dogs you have.
Food & Water
Your disaster kit should contain at least a week's supply of your pet's regular dog food. If they eat canned food, get ones that are small enough to be used in one feeding because during an emergency you may not have a way to properly refrigerate leftovers.
You should store dry food in airtight, waterproof containers like Vittles Vaults. Rotate your food supply every three months. Also put an extra feeding dish, a spoon to scoop or mix food, and a can opener with your emergency supplies.
Your preparations should include acquiring enough drinking water to last each dog in your household for a week. Store the water in a cool, dark place and rotate it so that it remains fresh.
Sanitation & Cleaning Supplies
Have a scoop and plastic bag so you can clean up after your dog and dispose of their waste. Also include dish soap for cleaning food bowls, paper towels, and a disinfectant for cleaning your dog's crate.
Collar & ID Tag
Make sure your canine companion has a properly fitting collar and ID tag on at all times. Keep a spare collar and tag with your disaster preparedness kit in case the permanent one gets lost. One you can write on is helpful if you have to live somewhere temporarily during an evacuation.
A leash and harness are also important because disasters are stressful for pets too. A scared or anxious dog might be able to slip out from their collar, but not a harness.
Crate or Kennel
During a disaster you may need to temporarily confine your dog. An airline kennel or collapsible wire crate are excellent solutions. Be sure that the crate is large enough for your pet to lie down in even with a food and water dish inside.
If you normally keep your dog outside, it would be wise to have stakes and a tie out cable as part of your disaster preparedness kit. Fences and walls can come down during storms and earthquakes, so tie out materials can keep a pet from running away and getting lost.
First Aid Kit
Putting together a basic pet first aid kit is essential. The following are some items that should be included:
Dog Medications
If your dog is on any long-term pet medications like Rimadyl for arthritis pain or pancreatic enzymes, make sure you have at least a two week supply handy. Also keep your pet's medical and vaccination records with your emergency supplies.
Make Copies of Your Pet's Important Paperwork
This includes pet insurance policies, microchip information, medical and vaccination records, adoption papers, and any other important documents. With your paperwork, should keep several pictures (that identify any distinguishing marks) of your animals. Store all your papers in plastic bags to keep them dry in case of heavy rains or flooding.
Pictures
Current photos of your pet (especially ones that show distinctive markings) should be included with your disaster kit. Include ones that have you in it in case you need to prove guardianship of your dog.
The above is provided for information purposes only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any condition.
This information does not cover all possible variables, conditions, reactions, or risks relating to any topic, medication, or product and should not
be considered complete. Certain products or medications may have risks and you should always consult your local veterinarian concerning the treatment of
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