Last Updated on April 16, 2023 by Lisa Vargas
As a pet owner, I’m always trying to make sure my dogs are well taken care of and have the necessary items in case disaster strikes. Our pets, especially dogs and cats, are like our own children, and just like we plan for our own safety during emergencies, it’s crucial to consider theirs too.
A bug out bag for your pets is a vital part of any emergency preparedness plan, ensuring that your pets are comfortable and well-cared for when disaster strikes. I have to say that some of the items on this list are to big to fit into an actual bag, but you can mix some of these larger items in with your own items in your bug out vehicle, for example, so that when you need to get out of town in a hurry, your pets are taken care of.
In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the essential items that should be included in your emergency kits or bug out bags for your pets.
Now remember, this is just a guide, and by no means does this have to be set in stone, but there definitely are some basics that you should have. So with that said, let’s get started.
Understanding the Needs of Your Pets During Emergencies
Before we dive into assembling an emergency pet bug out bag, it’s essential to consider the unique challenges our pets may face during emergencies.
Common challenges pets face during emergencies
If you think disasters are stressful for us, just think about how your pets feel! The sudden change in their routine and environment can make them feel scared and overwhelmed. Loud noises, unfamiliar people, and the general chaos that often accompanies emergencies can increase their stress levels.
Having a bug out bag that includes items to comfort and calm them, such as familiar toys, blankets, or even a piece of your clothing, can really help in easing their anxiety.
In emergency situations, access to essential resources like food, water, and medicine may become limited or not available at all. This makes it all the more important to have these items readily available in your pet’s bug out bag.
A well-stocked supply of food and water, as well as any necessary medications or first-aid items, will help you avoid the added stress of searching for these necessities during a crisis.
“Getting out of Dodge” in a hurry will surely cause your animals to be disoriented and distressed. They may become confused or frightened by new sights, sounds, and smells, and can get lost or injured in the chaos.
That’s why it’s smart to have a secure carrier, harness, or leash, and proper identification for your pet, so you can help ensure their safety and minimize the chances of them becoming separated from you during an evacuation.
Related Article: Bugging Out With Your Pet When SHTF
Importance of catering to their specific needs
Different types of pets have distinct needs, so it’s essential to customize the bug out bag according to your pet’s species, size, and individual requirements.
For example, a large dog will require a more substantial food supply and sturdier equipment than a small cat, while a reptile may need specialized heating elements to maintain a comfortable temperature.
It’s also crucial to consider any unique health or dietary concerns your pet may have, such as allergies or chronic conditions, when selecting items for their bug out bag.
Considering Different Types of Pets
Dogs will require plenty food and water supplies to survive during emergencies. Durable toys are essential for keeping their minds occupied and active, and you will need strong leashes and harnesses during hasty evacuations.
Cats, on the other hand, will more than likely find comfort in a simple carrier to hide in when they are stressed or overwhelmed. A portable or disposable litter box solution, for example, is a great addition to their bug out bag, ensuring that they stay clean for the duration you may be gone from your home.
Basic Items To Include In A Pet Bug Out Bag
When it comes to assembling a pet-friendly bug out bag, there are several things you’ll want to plan to have in your bug out bag for your pets. Let’s go through each one of them below.
1. Food and Water
Just like us, no pet can survive without food and water. So, you will want to ensure you have enough for at least as long as you plan to be away. This can get tricky, but a good rule of thumb is if you and your family have a one-month food and water supply, make sure your pets do as well.
- Proper storage for pet food: Airtight containers or sealed bags, such as zip lock bags, will do the trick, keeping food fresh and safe from pests.
- Water containers and purification methods: Collapsible bowls or bottles save space, and a portable water filter or purifying tablets come in handy if the water supply gets tainted with chemicals and your pets can’t find a clean source.
2. First Aid Kit
It is really important that you have a first aid kit for your dog and a first aid kit for your cat. Each one of these will include different things, but in general, your pet’s first aid kit should include:
- Basic first aid items for pets: Gauze, cotton balls, adhesive tape, anti-itch spray, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and a digital thermometer are a few essentials.
- Medications: If your pets are any kind of medication, then make sure to pack them.
- Supplements: This can be anything that you give your dog such as hip and joint supplements, CBD chews, or allergy chews.
- Flea and Tick Medications: This might be handy if you plan on being gone for longer than a few weeks. If it gets really bad and you are forced to live outside to escape the chaos of the city, ticks can be more of a risk at that point. You will also want a tick key to remove ticks if needed.
- Flagyl (Metronidazole): Flagyl is used for diarrhea control in dogs and cats.
- Sulfadene: Sulfadene is a brand name for skin ointment that helps with hot spots, and skin irritation.
- Electrolytes: Make sure to pack some electrolytes for your pets because they can get dehydrated just like you can.
3. Shelter and Bedding
- Collapsible crates or carriers: Obviously these things can seem a bit bulky if you and your family have to set out on foot, but if you are evacuating your home due to a natural disaster, for example, then having a place to place your pet safely becomes very important. These portable homes provide a sense of security for both dogs and cats and you can get them anywhere online or at your local pet store.
- Blankets or towels: Depending on what time of year it is and where you live in the country, it can get really cold outside. Make sure to pack a blanket for your dog or cat to keep them warm or get them a dog jacket or cat jacket, which might be more convenient.
4. Collars, Leashes, and Harnesses
- Sturdy equipment: A strong collar, leash, and harness will be crucial because your dogs especially won’t be as relaxed as usual because they will be away from home and lots of external factors will be at play including strange people possibly, other dogs or cats, etc.
- ID tags and microchip information: Ensure your pet’s tags are up-to-date and bring a copy of their microchip info just in case.
5. Waste management
You will want to have items so that you can manage waste if you need to. Now of course in a chaotic event, a dog is naturally going to go where it wants to go. But if you find yourself having to stay in some sort of shelter where you can’t take regular potty breaks, having the below items will be necessary.
- Poop bags or litter box solutions: Whether it’s a portable litter box for your cat or biodegradable poop bags, have a plan in place.
- Cleaning supplies and sanitizers: Disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, and towels will help keep everyone clean. These types of items can also help if your dog gets sick and you need to clean up messes.
6. Comfort items
Even though it’s not an ideal situation and everyone is on high-alert and outside of their comfort zone, bringing comfort items for your pets can make things go a lot smoother for everybody.
- Toys and treats: Familiar playthings and tasty snacks can help ease your pet’s stress. Chew toys are especially good because it can help keep them busy during down-time.
- Comforting items: A favorite blanket or article of clothing can work wonders in keeping your pet calm and relaxed.
7. Other Items
There are other items that you should include in your pet’s bug out bag including the following:
- Pet ID Tag
- Vaccination Records
- Registration
- Proof of Ownership
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are several things that you should include in your bug out bag for your pets. Hopefully this post gave you an idea of what’s necessary and the planning that needs to go into keeping your pets safe during a disaster.