Pet Disaster Preparedness: 8 Items You Must Have

Growing up in Florida, I’m quite accustomed to hurricanes. Hurricane season in Florida lasts from June to November and the amount of hurricanes varies year to year. Being prepared for a natural disaster is so important, especially when it comes to our pets. Pet disaster preparedness means that our dogs or any pet that we have is included in our evacuation plans in case of an emergency.

In this post, I’ll be sharing X pet disaster preparedness items you need and why to ensure your dog’s safety during a natural disaster (tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, etc.).

1. Dog First Aid Kit

The first pet disaster preparedness item is an emergency kit for dogs. If you’re someone who loves taking your dog camping or on hikes, you may already have a dog first aid kit on hand. For those that don’t, a dog first aid kit has many helpful items inside that can help save your pet in an emergency.

One of the best emergency kits for dogs on the market is from Arca Pet. Arca Pet’s pet first aid kit has 100 pet first aid supplies including an emergency collar, thermometer, tick remover kit, antibiotic ointment and more. Plus, this pet first aid kit comes in a shock-proof hard case covered in water-resistant fabric!

Check out my full review of Arca Pet’s Pet First Aid Kit.

2. Dog Life Vest

Flooding can be one of the scariest acts that occurs during a natural disaster. This can happen quite often in Florida since we’re not that high above sea level. If your area is prone to flooding, I highly recommend investing in a dog life vest! Having a dog flotation vest can be the reason your dog stays alive during a flash flood. Most dog life vests easily slip on and can be secured by one or two buckles.

If you have to evacuate during a major storm, before you head out the door, slip on your dog’s life vest. I have used Outward Hound’s dog life jacket and most recently Guardian Gear’s Aquatic Dog Preserver for Annie (size large). I recommend both!

3. Two Weeks of Dog Food

You never know if you’re going to be able to return to your home or get to the store during a natural disaster, so having a few weeks worth of your pet’s food is a pet disaster preparedness must-have! Make sure the food is stored in water-proof containers or cans.

4. Bottled Water

Having clean, uncontaminated water can help prevent dehydration and sickness in our pets.

5. All Medications (Flea & Tick Included!)

If your dog is on any medications, make sure you have at least a month’s worth. This includes flea/tick and heartworm prevention! I purchase my flea/tick and heartworm prevention medicine through my vet in a 6 month packet. It fits in a small box and I can easily take that box with me if I need to!

6. Toys/Bedding/Blankets

During a natural disaster, the biggest thing your dog is going to need is comfort. Items from home like toys, bedding, blankets, etc. can help them stay calm during an emergency, especially if they’re in a new place like an evacuation shelter.

7. Food & Water Bowls

I recommend bringing your dog’s food and water bowls, because depending on where you may need to evacuate, there may not be any there. I recommend either bringing collapsible travel dog bowls or bowls that are easier to keep clean like stainless steel.

8. Dog Crate/Pet Carrier

Having a dog crate or pet carrier will help your dog during an emergency in the following ways:

Create a safe place in case your dog cannot be out in an evacuation shelter
Aid during travel
Provide a place of rest for your dog

I shared a review of my favorite dog crate from Carlson Pet Products and I highly recommend checking it out. It is a double door dog crate (has two entrance points) which can be a huge help during packing and traveling.

Read my post about 4 Must-Have Dog Products From Carlson Pet Products Here.

I always try to keep these 8 pet disaster preparedness items ready during hurricane season and I hope this checklist was super helpful for all of my fellow pet parents! To learn even more hurricane dog safety and other dog safety tips (like summer and water safety), check the posts below:

Plus, don’t forget to check out some of my most recent posts below: