Articles : Emergency Preparedness
What to do in Case of Emergency: How Can You Be Prepared?

Precious Minutes Could Save Your Pet's Life...
The first step is to ensure that your pet has identification, any combination is good, but the most important type is permanent identification the form of a tattoo or microchip. For more information on this please click here.

Make sure you have a piece of paper or card with pertinent information on it like your pet's name and any important information someone may need to know if they find your pet with his/her "Grab N' Go Bag". Also make sure you have a copy of this form with you in your emergency bag as you may need it for proof of ownership. For a copy of an Emergency Preparedness Pet Identification form like this, please click here.

The Grab N' Go Bag
This convenient bag will ensure fast escape from your home and necessary items for your pet and Emergency Personnel. Label the exterior of the bag with you and your pet's name. It is recommended that you pack your bag in this order:
  • Grooming supplies
  • Toy
  • Towel/blanket with your scent on it
  • Your basic pet first aid kit; include anything rigid to use as a splint
  • 14 day ration of food (pack canned food to decrease water intake or if you feed raw)
  • Can opener
  • A plastic lid to keep unused food fresh
  • 2 bowls
  • 7 litres of water (will vary depending on your pet)
  • 2 sturdy 6' leashes (will depend on the size of your pet)
  • Flat buckle collar or harness (legibly note you & your pet's name)
  • Consult your veterinarian for pain/diarrhea/antihistamine meds; note dosage for your pet clearly
  • Current vaccination record
  • 30 day supply of ongoing medication - NOTE DOSAGE
  • Emergency Preparedness Pet Identification form
Store your "Grab N' Go Bag" in your pet crate or with a collapsible large crate.
Ensure you rotate medication, food and water every 3 months.

Basic Pet First Aid Kit
Choose a sturdy, water resistant container. REMEMBER, in the event of an actual disaster, first aid supplies may be difficult to obtain. Please volunteer your pet first aid kits to Vets and Techs in the triage tent if you are able.
  • Hand sanitizer and at least 6 pairs of latex gloves
  • Anything rigid to use as a splint to protect bone injury from further damage
  • Rectal thermometer
  • Vaseline
  • Alcohol wipes
  • Cold pack
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Pet Antiseptic Cream (Polysporin will work, but they may lick it off)
  • Collar cone (Soft or hard will work) to prevent biting or licking at injuries
  • Cornstarch for bleeding nails
  • Scissors
  • 8 10x10 sterile pads
  • Rolled gauze
  • Self Adhering Wrap (vetrap)
  • Duct Tape
  • Pet First Aid booklet
What's Next?
Learn how to use your limited supplies creatively, and investigate other items to include.

Get Involved! Take a pet first aid course. Learn more about pet owner preparedness at www.citizencanine.org  Volunteer! Practice mock evacuations with your family and pet.

In the event of a real emergency, keep your leashed or crated pet and your pet's "Grab N' Go Bag" with you until emergency personnel can safely take over. Your pet will be counting on you and your confidence. Be ready. Know what to do.


DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT THEM!