The best way to protect your household from the effects of a disaster—such as a wildfire, power outage, or earthquake—is to have a disaster preparedness plan. If you are a pet owner, that plan should include your pets. Keep the following tips in mind while creating or updating your disaster preparedness plan!

Make a Plan

Disasters can happen without warning, so be prepared:

• Microchip your pets. Register the microchip with the manufacturer and keep your contact information up to date.
• Ensure pets have ID tags. Your pets' ID tags contain your contact information, so it’s easier for strangers to identify and locate you quickly. Just be sure to keep the contact information up to date.
• Prepare a pet disaster preparedness kit. A pet disaster kit is a collection of critical items and basic necessities your pet may need in an emergency. 
• Determine evacuation responsibilities. Discuss with your family or household who will grab your pets and who will grab their supplies (e.g., pet disaster kit) during an emergency.
• Identify where pets can stay. Many public shelters and hotels don't allow pets. Identify shelters or out-of-town friends or relatives where your pets and other animals can stay if you are displaced from your home.
• Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
• Know your pets’ hiding spots. In an emergency, you need to be able to locate and grab your pets as quickly as possible.
• Practice evacuating with your pets. Have your household practice evacuating with your pets so everyone knows what to take, where to find the pets, and where to meet.

Build a Kit for Your Pet

A pet disaster preparedness kit is a collection of critical items and basic necessities your pet may need in an emergency. Your kit should have enough supplies to meet your pets' needs at least 72 hours. Consider adding these items to your kit:

• Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight and waterproof container. Don't forget to add a food bowl and a can opener (if necessary).
• Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
• Medicine. Keep an extra supply of the medication your pet takes regularly in a waterproof container.
• First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
• Collar with ID tag and a harness or leash. Include a backup leash, collar, and ID tag. Have copies of your pets' registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
• Traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier. Ideally, you should have one for each pet. And be sure to add bedding, blankets, or towels so they're comfortable. 
• Grooming items. Pet shampoo, conditioner, and other items, in case your pet needs some cleaning.
• Sanitation needs. Include pet litter and litter box, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach for your pet’s sanitation needs.
• A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet.
• Familiar items. Put their favorite toys, treats, or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

Once you've put together your kit, be sure to maintain it so it’s always ready when you need it. Store your kit in an easy-to-access place (such as near the entrance to your home or in your garage) and replace expired items as needed.