Evacuation information and instructions for household pets from the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association):
You play an important role in helping your pets stay safe in a wildfire. Make sure they’re included in your family’s evacuation plan; and build each pet their own pet evacuation kit. It doesn’t take a lot of time to build one, and it can usually be done using things you already have at home.
Bring pets inside at the early signs of a wildfire – that way if an evacuation notice is issued, they’ll be close, and you won’t have to spend time searching for them outdoors. If possible, take pets with you when evacuating; they could encounter problems when left on their own, and you could have difficulty locating them when you return. Don’t ever delay leaving home during a fire to find pets; your personal safety could depend on a quick exit!
In some communities, evacuation shelters are located close to where pets are kept, but that’s not always the case. If they’re housed closely, you may have an opportunity to care for them yourself. If your animals are at the shelter, they’ll be happier and more comfortable if you have the items listed on the pet evacuation kit checklist.
Simple tools you’ll need to start building your pet’s evacuation kit:
- Large bin or tote with a lid (preferably a waterproof type)
- Clear waterproof sealable plastic bags in multiple sizes
- A Sharpie-style writing utensil for labeling and marking contents
- Notepad for documenting special details and needs
- Pen or pencil
- One or two flash drives
Pet Evacuation Checklist:
- Pet Vaccination Records:
- Copies of all current vaccination records for each pet
- Special Needs Documentation:
- Copies of Ownership Records
- Microchip Paperwork
- Medications:
- Keep a list of all current medicines and their associated doses
- Leash, Harness and Collars:
- Have your phone number and address on an I.D. tag attached to the pet’s collar
- List of important pet-related phone numbers:
- Veterinarian
- Local animal control agency
- Animal shelter/boarding facility
- Photos with your pet:
- A picture will help you document ownership and could also help in locating a missing pet
- Photos can help document any distinguishing characteristics that will be helpful in identifying a lost or missing pet
- Pet food and treats:
- Food for three to seven days
- If your pet eats canned food – include a manual can opener and spoon.
- Feeding bowl(s)
- Water:
- Pack enough clean water to meet each pet’s individual needs for a minimum of three days and up to one week
- Water bowl(s)
- Miscellaneous items:
- Cat litter, tray and scoop
- Bedding/blanket
- Toys
- Dog crate, cat carrier, or cage for birds and other small pets
- Grooming supplies
- Dog waste bags
- Pet first aid kit and animal first aid book:
- Items should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape, scissors, antibiotic ointment, medical-type gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution
- Cleaning supplies:
- Paper towels, trash bags, spray cleaner, disinfectant and hand sanitizer
Just as humans prepare, it’s important to have household pets ready year-round for a potential wildfire evacuation.
The author of this content cannot be liable for any use or misuse of the contents. This is a guideline and is meant for information only.
