Pet Emergency Checklist

Your pets need their own emergency plan — not an afterthought. This checklist covers what to prepare and what to know before an emergency happens.

Check boxes as you complete items. Print for an offline copy.

Supplies (3-Day Minimum)

Dry or canned pet food (3–7 day supply, rotated regularly)

Water (1 quart per day per medium-sized dog; adjust for size/species)

Pet medications (3–5 day supply with storage instructions)

Food and water bowls (travel-friendly)

Leash and collar with ID tag

Pet carrier or crate

Familiar toy or comfort item (reduces stress)

Documentation

Vaccination records (rabies is required by most shelters)

Microchip information and registration

Photo of you with your pet (proof of ownership)

Veterinarian contact information

Any medical condition or medication notes

Pet insurance informationOptional

Shelter Planning

Research which local emergency shelters accept pets

Identify pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation routes

Identify a friend or family member outside your area who can take your pets

Know your county's emergency pet shelter location

Note that many public emergency shelters do NOT accept pets

Pet-Specific Safety

Collar with current ID tag and contact information

Microchip kept current with correct contact information

Pets should be contained during evacuations (stress can cause bolting)

Medications for motion sickness or anxiety if applicable

Post-Emergency

Keep pets contained until area is declared safe

Watch for hazards (broken glass, downed power lines, contaminated water)

Maintain routines to reduce pet stress

Schedule vet check if pet shows signs of stress or injury

Note: Adapt this checklist to your household's specific needs. For medical, safety, and emergency guidance, consult healthcare providers and local emergency management agencies.

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More Checklists

72-Hour Kit Checklist
Family Emergency Plan
Water Storage Checklist
Power Outage Checklist
Evacuation Checklist
First Aid Kit
Vehicle Emergency Kit
Emergency Documents
Pet Emergency
Winter Outage
Home Readiness Audit
Shelter in Place