While we do everything we can to protect our fur babies, nothing can prepare us for natural disasters in the USA such as earthquakes, wildfires, summer hurricanes, tornadoes, and more. It’s always a good idea to prepare an evacuation plan for your family—and that includes your pets.

According to the American Humane Association, approximately 10 million pets are lost each year—and those numbers rise astronomically during unplanned disasters. Be ready for the unexpected with the following emergency preparedness tips.

How To Prepare Your Pet For A Natural Disaster

We can’t control these unforeseen events, but we can be ready for them. In the event of an emergency, there are many things you can do to formulate a top-notch preparedness plan for your four-legged family:

1. Calm Before (and after) the Storm

If you know when the event may take place, remember to bring your doggy inside well in advance and assure them that you are there for them. When you are stressed, your pets are stressed. Take familiar items with you such as your pet’s toys, bed or bowls to help ease their worry and remind them of smells that make them feel safe, even if you’re not at home. The key is to create a secure environment.

2. Identification

Microchipping your pet is the best and more permanent way to provide them with proper identification if you are ever separated. If any contact information changes, such as your address or phone number, be sure to keep everything up-to-date throughout their life.

In addition, remember to update any collar tags with your dog’s name, your information and any health concerns they might have. Keep a photo of your pet, their microchip information and/or license number on hand if they ever get lost.

3. Find a Safe Place

If you ever need to evacuate your family, find a friend or family member you can lodge with. You can also research hotels or pet-friendly facilities outside of your immediate area that might be available.

Leave your pet’s information and an extra copy of house keys with a trusted person in your community. That way they can evacuate your pet if you are not around and vice versa. Confirm evacuation plans with this person so that everyone is on the same page.

Evacuation Bug Out Bag Essentials for Your Best Friend

In addition to your human family, your pet will also require supplies if evacuation is needed. ASPCA suggests storing an emergency kit (aka “go bag”) ready at all times; one that is within reach and you can pick up near an exit fast.

A doggy survival kit should contain the following emergency supplies:

• a supply of dog food (shelf-stable pet food)
• water bottles
• dog bowls (collapsible bowls will save space)
• poop bags
• any meds your pet needs
• vaccination records
• pet first aid kit
• pet carrier for smaller animals

We suggest pet owners speak with your veterinarian as to what else would be best to include in your dog bug out bag.

All-in-all, being prepared with a solid dog emergency kit in addition to your family emergency go-bag can be a lifesaver for the whole family.