Disaster Preparedness for Pets – Pet Bug Out Bag List
When it comes to emergency preparedness, don’t forget the furry members of your family: your pets! Pets can rely on us to keep them safe and secure in the face of any disaster, so it’s important that we create a bug-out bag for each one. This list outlines essential items every pet needs if they’re ever forced to evacuate their home.
Having a pet bug-out bag packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice is an essential part of preparing for any type of disaster. After all, our furry friends need just as much protection as the rest of us! As such, it’s important to pack your pet’s bug-out bag with all the necessary items they may require in the event of an emergency. Here is a detailed list of items that should be included in your pet’s bug-out bag:
- Pet food (at least two weeks’ worth)
- Water/Water purification system
- Collapsible water and food bowls
- Medication
- First aid kit
- Shelter/Travel carriers
- Leashes, collars, and harnesses
- Identification tags
- Bedding and blankets
- Grooming supplies
- Waste bags
- Flashlight/reflective vest for nighttime visibility
- Copies of important documents and medical records
- Pet toys and treats (to keep them comfortable and relaxed)
Taking the time to prepare for disasters properly can give you peace of mind that your pet will stay safe and sound, no matter what happens. Having the right items packed ahead of time can make all the difference in your and your pet’s survival.
Bring A Favorite Item
We want to make sure to include our furry friends in our preps. How can we do that? Think about the basics first, and don’t forget about comfort, either.
Most comfort items for our pets, such as toys or blankets, are small and lightweight. We want them to feel like everything will be okay.
Most likely as long as you don’t leave them behind in a disaster to fend for themselves, they should be pretty happy to be by your side, but animals feel emotions too.
They may feel disoriented being away from their normal stable home life. That’s why I like to pack a little blanket for my dog. She just loves blankets!
Items Specifically for Dogs
- First Aid – I like this one because it includes many other items on this list! They can carry their gear as long as you make sure not to overload them!
- A good Leash – It’s a good idea to keep this on your person and not on the dog or in the backpack.
- A dog collar – Again keep it on yourself
- Dog toy – Not a must, but if there’s room, your dog will be happier if he/she has something to chew on or play with. Try to choose something that does not make noise!
- Favorite Blanket or other – My dog loves blankets and pillows. If the blanket is small enough, roll it up and attach it to your bag or the dog’s bag.
- A wool blanket would be a great addition especially if you live in colder weather! Wool wicks away moisture and is a very warm material.
- Paracord – You never know when or why you might need this.
- Dog Crate – A collapsible one if possible or you can try to have one at your destination point.
- Dog shoes – If you think that you may be going over rough terrain or a long distance some dog shoes will help to minimize sores and wounds. They come in all sizes.
Prepping For Livestock
When it comes to preparing your animals for disaster, livestock often slip the mind. However, they are just as important and require the same kind of preparation. When building your plan, don’t forget to consider your livestock.
You’ll want to include supplies that will take care of their basic needs – food, water, shelter, and more. Stock up on starter feed and hay, plus milk replacer and vitamins if you have calves or lambs. Make sure you also have blankets or tarps in case you need to make a quick shelter for them on the go. Include any necessary medications for your livestock, and think about bringing along insect repellent or fly traps if needed. And of course, don’t forget to pack any halters, leashes, or other supplies you may need while in transit.
It’s also smart to have an evacuation plan in place for your cattle so that you know exactly what to do and where to go when disaster strikes. Contact your local extension office to see if they can provide assistance in creating a plan, and make sure all family members understand the plan in case one of you is away when disaster hits. With some thoughtful preparation, you can ensure that all your animals are safe and secure during disaster season.