The Hartford

Pets need a disaster plan just like other members of the family. If you have to evacuate, you should always take your pet with you whenever possible. Pets are more likely to survive if they are with you than if you leave them alone in your house.  .

Planning in advance for your pet can help lessen the stress and anxiety for both you and your pet and increase your pet's chances for survival.

Before the Disaster

• Create an emergency kit for your pet.  Your pet's emergency kit should include:
  • food and water for at least five days, plus information about feeding schedules or food issues
  • any medications your pet needs as well as a description of any medical conditions
  • litter box or other waste disposal items such as newspaper or garbage bags
  • leashes, collars and carriers
  • current photos and descriptions of your pet - in case you get separated
  • a few toys or blankets to help lessen the anxiety of your pet
• Make sure your pet has up-to-date ID tags.  If you are separated from your pet, the ID tag may be the only way to identify your pet.
• Identify where your pet will go in case of a disaster. Many emergency evacuation sites won't allow pets. Do some research in advance to identify hotels, motels, friends or relatives outside the area where you and your pet can go in case of a disaster. Make a list of animal shelters, veterinary offices and boarding facilities that might offer temporary shelter in case you can't take your pet with you.
• Make arrangements for your pet in case you aren't home. Make arrangements with a neighbor willing to serve as your  back-up to take care of or evacuate your pet in case you aren't able to get back to your house when a disaster strikes. Make sure your neighbor knows where your pet's emergency kit is located.

During a Disaster

• Keep your pet indoors. As soon as you hear of a pending disaster, bring your pet indoors. Keep your pet close so you can evacuate quickly and easily if necessary. 
• Never leave your pet tied up outside. Pets left outdoors during a natural disaster can be easily injured or lost.
• If you have to evacuate, leave early.  If you wait too long to evacuate, you may have to be evacuated by emergency officials who may require you to leave your pet behind.
• Keep your pet with you if you can. If you must leave your pet behind, make sure it has enough dry food and fresh water to last for several days.  Do not tie your pet up indoors your pet needs to be able to move around freely in order to avoid any danger that might happen during the disaster.