August 5, 2026
86
Having an emergency plan for your family is essential. It needs to include all members – even your pets!
If there’s an emergency and you need to evacuate your home, make sure you are prepared to care for your pet for several days. These are items that should be part of your emergency kit for your pet:
Food and water - Depending on the size of your dog, it can drink about four litres of water per day. Cats drink about one litre of water per day. Don’t forget bowls and a can opener for food.
Pet first aid kit - Include any medications along with dosage information, vaccination records and your veterinarian’s contact details.
Identify your pet - Make sure it has its collar, ID tags, and that microchip information is up-to-date. In case of separation, having a recent photo in your kit can also help you identify your pet.
Comfort and care items - You’ll want to have essential items, such as a good leash, your pet's harness, a crate or carrier; as well as paper towels, bags for waste pick-up, litter and a litter box. Your pet’s favourite blanket or toy will bring comfort, too.
Ideally, you won’t be in a situation where you need to evacuate. If you are, it’s recommended you take your pet with you. However, most emergency shelters do not accept non-service animals, so planning ahead is wise. Your plan should include pet-friendly hotels or boarding kennels. Out-of-town friends or family are also an option for caring for your pet during an emergency.
If you must leave your pets behind, leave them indoors, but not in a crate. Give them plenty of food and water. Leaving the toilet seat up can also be a place for them to get water in an emergency. Post signs on your windows and doors to alert emergency responders to the fact that pets are inside.
“Pets are a part of the family, so including them in your emergency plan makes sense,” says Bruce County’s emergency management co-ordinator, Ray Lux. “Emergencies are stressful, so knowing your pets will be taken care of and safe, is one less worry.”
For more information about emergency preparedness, visit www.brucecounty.on.ca/getprepared.
Related Stories
No related stories.