Building a Pet Emergency Kit

In the Pacific Northwest, we know to expect the unexpected, from windstorms to heavy rain and flooding. While families often prepare their homes for these emergencies, our pets need the same level of readiness. Pets rely on us for everything, and in a crisis, having the right supplies on hand can mean the difference between safety and struggle. Burien Veterinary Hospital encourages every pet owner to assemble a pet emergency kit that can be quickly grabbed in the event of a weather disaster or sudden emergency, like a house fire. 

Why Pet Owners Need a To-Go Kit

During an emergency, there’s rarely time to gather supplies. Disrupted roads or flooding may leave you without access to stores or veterinary care. A fire can leave you having to deal with many stressful decisions. A dedicated pet emergency kit ensures your pet’s food, medicine, and comfort items are ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Think of it as insurance: you hope you’ll never need it, but if you do, it could make caring for your pet one less thing to worry about.

Must-Have Items for Your Pet’s Emergency Kit

Food and Water

• Store at least 5 days of your pet’s regular food in sealed, waterproof containers.
• Keep bottled water separate from the family’s supply to guarantee enough for your pets.
• Don’t forget collapsible bowls for easy feeding and hydration.

Medical Records and First Aid

• Include a week’s worth of any prescribed medications (use if needed as the prescription is running out).
• Keep printed copies of vaccination records and veterinary contacts in a waterproof bag.
• Put together a pet first aid kit.

Identification and Documentation

• Have an extra collar with ID tags.
• Keep a copy of microchip registration information.
• Bring recent photos of your pet to help identify them if separated.

Comfort and Familiarity

• A favorite blanket, toy, or chew can reduce stress during displacement.
• A small bag of treats may be useful if your pet is being uncooperative due to nerves.

Safety and Sanitation

• Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers will be needed that are appropriate to your pet’s size.
• Pack waste bags, litter and a portable litter box for cats, paper towels, and pet-safe disinfectant wipes.

Things to Consider When Building Your Pet’s Kit

Every pet is different. A senior pet may be on a joint supplement that needs to be packed. Puppies or kittens may require extra feeding supplies and potty training pads. Consider what the special must-haves are that your pet will need for at least a week.

Pet emergency kits aren’t “set and forget.” Every few months, check expiration dates on food and medicine, rotate water bottles, and replace worn/damaged supplies. As your pet ages, adjust the kit to match needs. As a note, make sure you are storing this kit somewhere that is both easily accessible if you need to run out the door in a hurry and temperature controlled so items don’t spoil as quickly.

Prepare Your Pet with Veterinary Care in Burien, WA

No one likes to think about disasters, but being prepared is one of the most caring things you can do for your pet. With a well-stocked emergency kit, you know you can meet your pet’s needs for a little while in any situation. Burien Veterinary Hospital is here to help you prepare with preventive veterinary care in Burien for cats and dogs from Burien, White Center, and Tukwila, and neighboring communities. Call us to schedule an appointment with our veterinarians.