An Evacuation Kit for Your Dog

By: Holly Nash

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An Evacuation Kit for Your Dog


Holly Nash, DVM, MS
Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

 

 

  
 
Food and Water
• Food: Two weeks supply; place dry food in airtight containers (rotate every 3 months)
• Usual treats (rotate every 3 months)
• Water: Two weeks supply of water (store in dark place, rotate every 2 months). Estimate a quart a day.
• Food and water dishes
• Spoons and can opener, if necessary

Restraint and Identification
• Extra collars or harnesses with tags (identification tag, rabies tag, license)
• Leashes, including a nylon slip leash
• Towels
• Muzzle or roll of gauze to make a muzzle (in case your dog is injured)
• Thick leather gloves (in case your dog is injured or very afraid)
• Dog life preserver (if in a flood zone)
• Pet carrier with the following information indelibly printed: your name; phone number; address; a description of your dog (distinguishing marks, age, breed, sex, spayed, neutered, etc.); the name of your dog; microchip ID or tattoo ID, if any; pet insurance policy number; and the address and phone number where you or a contact person can be reached if you are not at home
• Recent photographs with the same information that is on the pet carrier printed on the back (keep in a waterproof container, e.g., inside several ziplock bags). Include yourself in some of the photos to help you reclaim your pet, should he become lost.
• Wire, pliers, and duct tape (to repair pet carrier)

Sanitation
• Newspaper
• Paper towels
• Dish soap
• Disinfectant
• Garbage bags
• Plastic bags for holding waste (two weeks supply)
Care and Comfort
• Blanket
• Toys and chew toys
• Hot water bottle
• Flashlight and batteries
• Grooming supplies
• Dental cleaning supplies

Records and Medications (store in a waterproof container)
• Vaccination certificates
• List of phone numbers:
   • Your veterinarian
   • List of secondary veterinarians
   • "Pet-friendly" motels
   • Boarding facilities (Red Cross shelters do not allow animals)
   • Emergency clinic(s)
   • Database centers if your dog is tattooed or has a microchip
   • Animal poison control center(s)
   • Animal shelters in your area (in case you get separated from your pet)
• Pet insurance policy number
• Copies of proof of ownership papers (registration information, adoption papers, proofs of purchase, and microchip/tattoo information to store in the evacuation kit). List each of your animals and their species/breed, age, sex, color, and other distinguishing characteristics.
• Medical records and/or list of medical needs, if your dog has a medical condition or is on medication
• Two weeks supply of medication and any supplements (include at least one dose of your monthly heartworm preventive) in a waterproof container (rotate every two months); have chemical ice packs and a small, insulated cooler if medication needs refrigeration
• If your dog is taking medication regularly, include that information on a separate ID tag
• If your dog becomes fearful during storms, sudden changes in routine, or separation from you, contact your veterinarian regarding tranquilizers or calming remedies that could be included in your kit (e.g., Rescue Remedy)
• First aid kit

A large plastic tub or garbage can with a lid can be used to store these disaster preparedness items for your dog. Tape a copy of this list to the inside of the cover for future reference. Include a calendar indicating when certain items should be/were replaced.

In addition to the items listed above, include anything you use for your dog on a weekly or monthly basis. A good idea is to collect all the materials for your disaster preparedness kit, and then experiment by using only those items to care for your dog the next two weeks. That way, you will easily find out if you need to include other items, or a larger quantity of certain things.

About the Author:

Holly Nash, DVM, MS
Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.


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