Our pets are dear. For many of us, pets are family. 

PET KIT: This is such an important topic. Make sure each pet has a tag with your identification. You must bring pets in carriers to any gathering/shelter environment – another use for wheelies as part of your kit. 

Pets also must have leashes.  Include pet medical records, (especially proof of immunization). Should you end up in an American Red Cross shelter please know they permit only legitimate service dogs inside shelters. 

If you are a pet owner, I suggest you join w/other pet owners in your locale to create a Pet Emergency Response Plan.  This would involve having a safe place for pets adjacent to your human gathering location/shelter.  No one is going to set this up for you. This will only occur as a result of networking, pre-need.  

Pet Kit Suggestions: Most important is sufficient water and food for the size and health of your pet(s). A small dog or cat could be okay with a quart of water/day; a large dog could need a gallon or more. 

Include dry food and/or canned/pouched food sufficient for 120 hours. Do not introduce a food that is unfamiliar to your pet(s). This could cause digestive issues.  

Include collapsible bowls in your pet kit. A foldable flat gift box is easy to include in your kit and can be lined with plastic bag and a few inches of litter or saw dust (that you must bring) for your cat. 

Include scoop and plastic bags for cleaning up your pet’s waste. Pack familiar toys and bedding, pet comb/brush, etc. Recommended first-aid supplies (anti-diarrheal, antibiotic and pain medications) are available at pet store to purchase now, pre-need.  

Carry a photo of you and pets in same photo; it may be important in establishing you are the pet’s parent/owner.