emergency go bags for pets
It’s a good idea to have the right supplies on hand for your cat or dog just in case disaster strikes.
You may have an evacuation or emergency plan for the people in your life, but do you have one for your pets? A pet disaster prep kit can help give you peace of mind.
Information and resources to keep on hand
- Current pet medical records and special needs
- Current microchip information
- A designated safe place, like a shelter or emergency clinic
- Photos of your pet in case you get separated
Emergency pet preparation checklist
- Food and water for three to seven days
- Two weeks of medication (if needed)
- Collapsible food and water bowls
- Reflective tag for collars
- Carrier or crate
- Extra leash and harness
- Blanket
- Treats
- Comfort toys
- Pet first aid kit
Help for pets in the United States in case of natural disasters, power outage, and more
Crisis situations like hurricanes, fires, floods, and earthquakes can mean an emergency evacuation of your home. Here’s what to have on hand for your pet in case disaster strikes.
![A cat in its carrier leaving a vet](/-/media/Project/Banfield/Main/en/PHADO/First-Aid/Emergency-go-bags/20191105_029.jpg?h=590&w=1050&rev=ad4cadf8842b43bb9c40a86c35e8600d&hash=199FBC21A98E2060792846126411C707)
Have a plan to take care of your furry friends
In addition to basic supplies for your pets, it helps to have a communication plan with humans too. Let family or friends know where you keep your evacuation kits, plus your plan for keeping your animals safe in an emergency. You can also purchase window clings or decals that alert first responders that pets are in the home and need to be rescued.
Keep all pet medical and microchip records up to date
Current vaccinations are especially important during emergencies to help protect your pet. A microchip can help you reunite with a lost BFF.
Plus, make sure to have printed paper copies of all records on hand. Online access to records isn’t always possible in an emergency.
Have pet carriers for cats or dogs handy
Each of your pets should have their own carrier, or leashes along with collars and harnesses if they’re too big to safely transport any other way. Keep these supplies where they’re easy to access.
It can also help to plan how you'll transport your pet's food. Ideally you should have at least two weeks’ supply, as well as access to bottled water.
If your pet is on medication, try to ensure you have an up-to-date supply in case of emergency. Your veterinary team is a great resource to help you plan.
Designate a safe place if you have to evacuate
If your home is not safe for you, it’s probably not safe for your pet. Find out what your local disaster assistance organizations provide for pets, and if local pet disaster assistance programs are available. Keep this info in your pet’s emergency kit and make sure family members know where to go.
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Whether it's 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., connect with a real veterinary professional for immediate petcare advice. It's included in all Optimum Wellness Plans®!
Log in to start chattingHow Banfield can help in a pet emergency
![A happy dog in its owners lap](/-/media/Project/Banfield/Main/en/PHADO/Global/20200801_002_525x295.jpg?h=295&w=525&rev=446a60a2fb454688ba14ece51b72ec07&hash=88A9204EC1B5C4BA85F0ECD920A502D1)
Banfield’s focus is wellness care. In the case of an emergency, call your local veterinary team to see if they have the capacity to see your pet. If not, they may recommend that you go immediately to an emergency hospital.
Costs for urgent care services will depend on location, your pet’s needs, and the services provided. Please speak to your local Banfield veterinary team if you have questions regarding urgent care.
Pet urgent care advice
Call any local Banfield during hospital hours for advice. Depending on your pet's needs, we can provide a referral for local emergency hospitals or specialty providers. During non-hospital hours, please contact your local veterinary emergency hospital. Find a Banfield near you
Chat with a team member online
All pet Optimum Wellness Plans® come with Pet ChatTM for anytime, anywhere, 24/7 access to live general veterinary advice. Chat now
Access pet records in your MyBanfield account
Pet records are available 24/7 in MyBanfield both online and in our app. These include medical records, microchip information, and more. If you lose your records or can't get online, give us a call. A Banfield associate may be able to help you access the information you need.