Pets and Emergencies

By Emergency Management Ontario

Pets are part of our families. During an emergency situation, it is important to know how to keep our animal companions safe. Emergencies can happen at any time, so prepare today. Assemble a pet emergency kit and make arrangements for your pet in the event that you must evacuate.

Pet Emergency Kits

Prepare an emergency kit for your pet. Be sure you have:

• Food, potable water, bowls, paper towel and a can opener
• Blanket and a small toy
• Sturdy leash/harness
• Cat litter/pan (if required) and plastic bags
• Carrier for transporting your pet
• Medications and medical records (including vaccinations)
• Current photo of your pet in case your pet gets lost
• Information on feeding schedules, medical or behavioral problems in case you must board your pet
• Up-to-date ID tag with your phone number and the name/phone number of your veterinarian
• Copy of licence (if required)
• Muzzle (if required)

Keep this kit in the same spot as your family emergency survival kit for easy retrieval. Pets need supplies, too.

Animals get anxious during emergencies. If possible, keep your pet in a carrying cage with a familiar blanket, so your pet(s) feels as secure as possible. Do not leave your pet alone, with strangers or without a leash at any time. During an emergency, your pet may panic, behave in a distressed manner or even run away and end up lost. Or, because of the distressed state, your pet may bite someone. REMEMBER…during an emergency, you are still responsible for your pet.