Pet Preparedness Month: Essential tips for pet safety

It’s easy to remember to prepare for ourselves in case of an emergency, but what about our pets? Join RedRover in celebrating Pet Preparedness Month by setting aside emergency items that are often overlooked by pet owners.

In case of an emergency, prepare the following for your pet(s):

1. Food and water for at least 5 days. If you plan on packing canned food, don’t forget a can opener! You can buy plastic gallon jugs full of water – we suggest keeping between 4-5 gallons just in case your pet is exposed to something and needs an impromptu bath.
2. Don’t forget bowls to pour water in! We love collapsible bowls – both convenient and portable.
3. Keep extra medication and medical records safe. If your pet requires any sort of special care, be sure to keep extra supplies in your emergency kit just in case you are not able to make it to the store. Also, don’t forget to update your pet’s vaccinations when necessary!
4. Leashes, harness and/or carriers. Loud noises, unfamiliar places and other animals can all be scary for pets.  It’s important that you are able to safely contain and keep your pet out of danger – because once they escape, it can be very difficult to locate them again, especially during an emergency.
5. ID tags/updated microchip. Emergencies can get chaotic – especially for pets that aren’t able to communicate like us. In case your pet gets lost, you will have a much better chance of finding them if they have proper identification.
6. A current photo of your animals! In an unfortunate event that your pet becomes scared and disappears from your safety, it’s important that you are able to show people what your pet truly looks like.
7. Pets have to go too! Make sure to pack litter, a litter box and garbage bags.
8. Favorite toys/blankets. Trying to make your pets feel comfortable even during times of chaos is important. A favorite toy or blanket might make all the difference in an uncomfortable situation.

Most importantly, remember: If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pet.  We suggest scoping out some comfy, pet-friendly hotels around your area just in case you must leave your home. We can guarantee both you and your pet will be happy you did.

Find more pet preparedness tips in case of a natural disaster at RedRover.org/disastertips.