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At-Home and On-the-Go: How to Prepare an Emergency Kit for Your Pet

By June 23, 2025No Comments

June is National Pet Preparedness Month—a timely reminder that emergencies don’t just affect people. Natural disasters, power outages, and severe weather can impact your pets too, often when you least expect it. That’s why having a well-stocked emergency kit for your dog or cat—and a plan for both staying home and leaving quickly—is one of the most important things you can do as a responsible pet owner.

At Family Friends Veterinary Hospital, we want our West Michigan families to feel confident and prepared. Whether you’re sheltering in place during a storm or facing an unexpected evacuation, here’s how to make sure your pets are ready.

Step 1: Build a Pet Emergency Go-Bag

A pet go-bag is a grab-and-go kit you can take with you in case of evacuation. Keep it somewhere easy to access, like a front closet or garage shelf near your own emergency supplies.

Here’s what to include:

Food & Water (3–7 Days’ Worth)

  • Pack your pet’s usual food in a sealed, waterproof container.

  • Include collapsible bowls and bottled water.

  • Don’t forget a manual can opener if you’re packing canned food.

Medications & Medical Records

  • Store a backup supply of any daily medications with clear instructions.

  • Include copies of vaccination records, medical history, and your veterinarian’s contact information (especially important if you’re away from home).

Identification & Photos

  • A copy of your pet’s microchip information and a recent printed photo (in case you are separated).

  • Make sure your pet wears a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

Leash, Harness, and Crate

  • A sturdy leash or harness helps keep your pet secure.

  • For cats or small dogs, include a carrier that’s easy to carry and ventilated.

  • Make sure your pet is familiar with the carrier before an emergency happens.

Waste Supplies

  • Pack poop bags, puppy pads, or disposable litter trays with litter.

  • Bring a small scoop and trash bags for easy clean-up.

Comfort Items

  • A favorite toy or blanket can help soothe stress.

  • Familiar smells provide comfort in unfamiliar environments.

First Aid Kit

  • Include gauze, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, and pet-safe pain relief (ask your vet for recommendations).

  • You may also want to include a muzzle for safety in case your pet is injured or scared.

Step 2: Prepare to Shelter in Place

Sometimes the safest option is staying home—but you’ll still need a plan to keep your pet safe and comfortable. In West Michigan, power outages, severe storms, or extreme temperatures can quickly become dangerous for pets.

Here’s how to prepare:

🌀 Power Outages

  • Have battery-powered fans or cooling mats on hand for hot weather.

  • Use extra blankets or pet-safe heating pads in the winter.

  • Keep extra water in case the power loss affects your plumbing.

🌩️ Storm Safety

  • Designate a safe, quiet space where your pet can retreat. A basement or interior room with no windows is ideal.

  • Close blinds and turn on white noise to minimize fear during thunder or fireworks.

  • Keep your emergency supplies in this space so they’re ready when needed.

🔥 Fire or Gas Leaks

  • Make sure your pet is included in your evacuation plan. Practice leashing or crating them quickly.

  • Place a pet rescue alert sticker in your front window that lists the number and type of pets inside.

Step 3: Check and Update Your Supplies Regularly

It’s easy to set it and forget it—but an outdated emergency kit can do more harm than good.

Every 6 months, check for the following:

  • Expiration dates on food, water, and medications

  • Size and fit of leashes, collars, or harnesses—especially for growing pets

  • Seasonal supplies like paw wax for winter or tick prevention for summer

  • Updated medical records and photos

Make it part of your spring and fall routines to refresh your kit and review your emergency plan with the whole family.

Photo by Sam Lion (via Pexels)

Emergencies Are Stressful—Preparation Doesn’t Have to Be

The good news is that just a few hours of preparation can make a world of difference in your pet’s safety during an emergency. Whether you’re stuck at home during a power outage or need to evacuate with little warning, having a plan and the right supplies means your pet will be safer, more comfortable, and less likely to experience trauma or separation.

If you have questions about building a pet emergency kit, updating ID tags, or preparing backup medications, we’re here to help.

Ready to Get Prepared?

Our veterinary team at Family Friends Veterinary Hospital is happy to assist you in making sure your pet’s microchip is up to date, refilling prescriptions for emergency kits, or answering any questions about pet safety in emergencies.

📍 6555 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan
📞 Call us at (616) 575-6520
💻 Visit us online at www.familyfriendsvet.com

Let’s make sure your whole family—furry members included—is prepared for whatever comes next.

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