Home emergencies can happen at any time. Buildings can get hit in severe thunderstorms, flash floods, and unexpected household accidents that cause fires. Being prepared can take away some of the stress that comes with the unexpected, and pets shouldn’t be overlooked in the process. In a crisis, our pets depend on us completely. Club Hill Animal Clinic encourages every pet owner to create a dedicated emergency kit so your pets are taken care of when life takes an unexpected turn.
What to Include in Your Pet’s To-Go Emergency Kit
Emergencies often unfold quickly, leaving little time to gather what you need. If you’ve ever had to leave the house in a hurry, you know how stressful it can be to think clearly. Having a pre-packed kit means that you can grab your pet’s essentials immediately with no scrambling or forgetting to grab something important. Your pet’s kit should include:
Food and Water
- A 3–7 day supply of your pet’s regular food
- Bottled water just for your pet
- Portable bowls for feeding and drinking.
Medications and Health Records
- A week’s worth of any prescription medications
- Vaccination records and medical history (should be in a waterproof container)
- Your veterinarian’s contact information and a list of clinics with emergency veterinary services
First Aid
- A pet-friendly first aid kit
- A pet first aid guide for quick reference
Identification and Documentation
- Extra collar with ID tags
- Microchip information
- Recent photos of your pet
Comfort and Safety Items
- A sturdy leash, harness, and/or carrier
- A favorite blanket or toy to ease stress
Sanitation Supplies
- Litter and a portable box for cats
- Waste bags for dogs.
Paper towels, pet-safe wipes, and pet-safe disinfectant
Additional Considerations for Your Pet’s Kit
A to-go pet emergency kit isn’t “one and done.” Food, medications, and water expire over time. Check your kit every three to six months in order to replace expired items and update supplies as your pet’s needs change. Setting a reminder on your phone is an easy way to remember when it’s time to check on the kit.
Additionally, make sure to really think about your pet when creating the kit. A senior pet may require supplements or a softer bed. Puppies may need potty pads. Dogs might need extra leashes or harnesses. Consider if there is anything specific that your pet couldn’t do without for about a week.
Where Should You Store Your Pet’s To-Go Kit?
The kit should be kept in an easy-to-reach location, ideally near your home’s main exit. If you travel frequently with your pet, keep a smaller version in your car. Having supplies in multiple places means you’re never caught off guard. You should consider temperature when it comes to storage location. If you store the kit in a garage, for example, the pet food might spoil in summer heat.
Emergency Veterinary Care in Garland, TX
An emergency is stressful, but with a pet emergency kit prepared in advance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your pet’s needs are covered. Planning ahead gives you confidence and gives your pet the security they deserve in uncertain situations. If your pet is ever injured in an emergency while leaving the house, Club Hill Animal Clinic provides daytime emergency veterinary services in Garland for pets from Garland, Rowlett, Mesquite, and surrounding Texas areas. Contact us for urgent care.