Natural disasters can affect families at any time, sometimes forcing people and their pets to evacuate their homes and relocate to areas with limited resources. Early preparation helps people and pets leave quickly with less stress.

Before Disaster Strikes

Learn in advance how local news and weather sources share information. Have your mobile devices prepared to receive emergency alerts, and stay aware of local weather patterns and how they might affect your area.

While some emergencies cannot be predicted, hurricanes, wildfires, and heavy rains often come with warnings. Discuss evacuation plans in advance, including how you will travel and where you might go. Make sure each pet has proper identification. Microchips and tattoos are permanent, but they require special equipment to read. GPS tracking devices can help locate your pet if there is satellite or cellular service and your pet is within range.

Emergency Kits

Prepare an emergency kit for everyone in your home, including pets. The kit should be easy to access and always up to date. It should include:

• Copies of each pet’s medical records, including any diagnoses and current medications. Store in a waterproof container or bag.
• Enough medications for at least two weeks. Talk to your veterinarian about keeping extra medications on hand for emergencies.
• A copy of your pet’s microchip or tattoo information, along with pictures of each pet to link them to their supplies.
• Food and water bowls. Collapsible bowls do not take up much space in a kit.
• Food for at least three to four days, especially any special diets that may be hard to find during emergencies. Include scissors or a can opener.
• For cats, pack litter, a litter box, and a scoop.
• Transportation items such as kennels, sturdy harnesses, leashes, and possibly a muzzle.

You can find a complete list of items to include in your kit from the AVMA.

During a Disaster

Decide if you need to evacuate or if you can stay at home. If staying at home:

• Keep pets inside and under your supervision to prevent them from escaping or getting hurt.
• You might need extra supplies in your emergency kit, like enough food and water for at least seven days.
• After the disaster, check your home and yard to make sure it is safe before letting your pets roam freely.  

Never leave pets behind during a disaster. It could take days or even weeks for emergency responders to check homes, and pets left behind could get lost, sick, or worse.

Traveling During a Disaster

There are different considerations depending on how you travel. Personal cars are easy to prepare, but are not an option for everyone.

• Secure pets with carriers, kennels, or seatbelts. Make sure these are in good condition.
• If using buses or public transportation, extra safety measures might be needed, such as a muzzle.
• If a muzzle is necessary, ensure it is a well-fitted basket muzzle that lets your pet pant, drink, and eat. Some pets may need a custom muzzle. Teach your pet to love wearing their muzzle before it is needed.
• Some pets may get anxious or sick during car rides. Ask your veterinarian for anti-nausea or anti-anxiety medications to have on hand. Test any medication before travel. 
• Pheromone sprays or lavender can help reduce car anxiety. Apply these products to towels or the floorboards, not directly on your pet.
• For long trips, prepare a litterbox for your cat to use in the car. 

Arriving at Your Destination

Keep in mind that some disaster shelters will not allow you to keep your pet with you. Consider a pet-friendly hotel or staying with family, if possible.

• Hotels may limit the number or type of pets allowed. Hotels with indoor hallways can be noisy, which might stress your pet. Limited outside spaces could also cause problems.
• Check before booking private rentals, which may have rules about pets.
• Staying with family or friends might be more comfortable, but pets need time to adjust. Keep pets from different households separated since stressful times are not good for introducing animals.
• If you and your pet have to stay apart, leave clear instructions and contact information. Keep this information with your pet’s emergency kit.

Arrival at Evacuation Location

Create a safe space for each pet:

• Use pheromone sprays or plug-ins.
• Sound machines, TVs, or radios can help block external noises, especially in small spaces or hotels.
• Set up kennels or beds with familiar blankets to reduce stress.
• Cats should have vertical spaces to climb and hide in. Hotel closets or open cabinets work well.

In crowded areas, dogs might need muzzles to safely go outside for bathroom breaks. To reduce stress in the new environment, provide enrichment, such as hiding treats, using empty toilet paper rolls filled with kibble, or rolling up a towel with treats inside.

If your veterinarian previously provided medication or supplements to help your pet adjust to a new environment, use as directed. If you expect a long stay, find out where you can buy pet food and refill prescriptions. You might also need to find temporary veterinary care for ongoing medical needs.

Returning Home After a Disaster

Check inside your home for damage and safety issues before letting your pet go free. Remove debris or hazards that could harm your pet before letting them back outside. Depending on how long they were away, how stressed they are, and any changes to the home, it might take your pet days or even weeks to settle back in at home. Set up safe spaces for your pets at home to help them adjust.

 If you live in an area that is prone to extreme weather issues or other natural disasters, being prepared to quickly evacuate can make a difference in a stressful situation.