When preparing for an emergency, don’t forget about your pets! June is Pet Preparedness Month, and it serves as a good reminder to make sure your emergency plans include your furry, feathered, or scaled family members.

Pets rely on us for safety and care especially during a disaster. In some emergencies, you may need to evacuate quickly or become separated from your animals. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages pet owners to take time now to prepare, so they’re ready to act when it matters most.

Make a Plan For Your Pet

• Know Where to Go: Not all shelters or hotels accept animals. Research pet-friendly locations ahead of time and keep a list of places—like boarding facilities, friends’ homes, or pet-welcoming hotels—you can turn to in a disaster.
• Create a Buddy System: Arrange with a trusted friend, neighbor, or relative who can help care for or evacuate your pet if you’re not home.
• Microchip and Update ID: Make sure your pet is microchipped and wears a collar with current identification tags. Don’t forget to keep your contact information, along with an emergency out-of-area contact, up to date.
• Practice Your Plan: Include your pet in emergency drills so they get used to their crate or carrier. The more familiar they are with the routine, the easier it will be in a real emergency.
• Stay Connected with Local Resources: Contact your local emergency management office or animal shelter for guidance specific to your community.

What to Pack in a Pet Emergency Kit

Just like you would for yourself, having an emergency kit ready can make all the difference. Put together a portable, easy-to-carry container with the essentials your pet will need.

Some items to include:

• Food and water for at least several days
• Bowls, litter/litter pan, and manual can opener (if using canned food)
• Medications and medical records in a waterproof container
• A basic pet first aid kit
• Leashes, harnesses, collars with ID tag, and/or secure carriers to help prevent escape
• Pet wipes, shampoo, and other hygiene items suited for your pet in case they need cleanup
• Sanitation supplies, such as litter and litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, etc.
• Current photos of you and your pet in case you’re separated
• Details on feeding, behavior, and vet contact information
• Pet beds, toys, or comfort items, if easy to carry

Don’t wait until an emergency is underway to think about your pet’s safety. Taking time to plan now helps make it easier to keep your entire household (pets included) safe and ready to respond.