Emergency Supplies Checklist

Preparing Your Family

Tips for
Preparing Children

Tips for the
Physically Challenged

Tips for the Elderly

Tips for Apartment and Mobile Home Managers

Organizing Your Neighborhood

Tips for Pet Owners

How To Secure
Your Furniture

How To Strap Your Water Heater

1. Water: A three-seven day supply. A 10 lb. animal needs about one quart of water per day; a 40 lb. animal needs about one gallon of water per day.
2. Food: A three-seven day supply. Food should be rotated every two months to ensure freshness. Don't forget an extra can opener if using canned food.
3. Kennel/crate for housing: For dogs, it should be large enough to stand up and turn around and include food/water bowls. For cats it should be large enough to include a small litter pan along with food/water bowls. There are a wide variety of crates available; some are completely collapsible and take up very little space--check pet supply stores and pet supply catalogs. Label the crate with name, address and phone number.
4. Newspaper to line crates and blankets/towels for bedding and to cover the crate during transport.
5. Kitty litter and small litter boxes. (Shallow cardboard boxes work well. A litter pan can also be made by stapling/taping several layers of newspaper at the corners to form a shallow pan.)
6. Leashes/collars with extra I.D. tags; tags should include owner's name, address, phone number and an out of state number for emergency contact. If a pet regularly takes medication (diabetes, heart disease, epilepsy, etc.) it should be noted on an additional I.D. tag. If your pet has a tattoo/microchip please note it.
7. Booties for dogs to help keep feet warm and protect against broken glass, etc.
8. Plastic bags, paper towels & pooper scoopers for waste cleanup. Ziplock bag(s) to store your pet's photos, paperwork, medication(s).
9. Current photos of pet--include distinguishing markings (these details can also be written on the back of the photo, along with age/breed/sex/spayed/neutered info.)
10. Copies of medical records--especially current vaccinations. Proof of current rabies vaccination is important for public health/safety. Your pet should be current on all vaccinations for its won health/safety, and boarding facilities may not take pets without this information. If you are unsure about your pet's vaccination status, contact your veterinarian. If you have pet medical insurance, include a copy of your policy.
11. Extra medication (at least 2 weeks' supply) if your pet regularly takes medication, along with instructions for administering medication.
12. Muzzle or a roll of gauze bandage that can be used as a muzzle in case your dog becomes agitated and aggressive during the confusion. Even the most gentle animal can bite when hurt and/or frightened. Your veterinarian can instruct you on the safe use of a muzzle.
13. Toys/treats: Just like children, pets can gain comfort with the distraction of a favorite toy or treat. Even including an old unwashed shirt with your scent on it can be a comfort if your pet is being cared for by strangers.