Emergency Preparedness For Your Dog

Whether you’ve faced a minor emergency or a major crisis, we can all relate to the feeling of being caught off guard and suddenly overwhelmed – these types of situations are suddenly upon us so it’s normal to be in a state of “what do I do next?!” Your mind starts racing, scrambling to create a to-do list amid all the chaos, making it difficult to think clearly. That’s where being prepared comes in. Having a plan in place removes some of the stress, allowing you to focus on handling the current situation.

When an emergency happens, being prepared can make a difference for both you and your furry companion. This includes a natural disaster like a hurricane, wildfire, or earthquake, or even a power outage or home evacuation. If you take some steps in advance, it can bring peace of mind. It helps you be ready to act and take action. Not to mention, it’s also about safety. Leaving dogs out of evacuation or emergency plans can put pets, pet owners, and first responders in danger. There’s also the risk that your dog will be left behind or even lost. Straight from the American Humane Society they emphasize, “thousands of pets are displaced each year due to natural disasters, and sadly many will not reunite with their families.” This statement is a huge motivation to get started today! 

Step 1: Create a Dog Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit or bag can provide the essentials your dog needs to stay safe and comfortable during an evacuation or prolonged emergency. Your kit should include:

Food & Water: At least a 3-day dog food and bottled water supply. Collapsible Bowls: For easy feeding and hydration. Medications & Medical Records: Keep a copy of vaccinations and prescriptions in a waterproof bag. Leash, Collar & ID Tags: Make sure your dog has updated identification. Crate or Carrier: Useful for transportation and keeping your pet secure. Waste Bags: For cleanup.
Comfort Items: A blanket, toys, or an item that smells like home to reduce stress. A picture of both you and your dog. If you become separated from your furry companion during an emergency, a picture of you and your dog together is great documentation to show it is your dog and can help others identify your dog.

Step 2:  Have an Evacuation Plan

Know where you and your dog will go if you need to leave your home. Unfortunately, many emergency shelters do not allow pets, so pop online and research some pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities. Keep this handy in your notes somewhere. 

Make a backup emergency plan if for some reason you can’t care for your dog. Have a buddy system with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone can care for or evacuate your dog if you are unable to do so. People are always happy to lend a hand! 

Step 3:  Identification & Microchipping Double-check that your dog has a collar with an updated ID tag. It’s a good time to research and consider microchipping as an added layer of security since a collar can go missing. In case of separation, a microchip significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your furry Fido!

Step 4: Train for Emergencies

Practice makes perfect! Plus your dog pal loves learning new skills. Practicing emergency drills with your dog can help them stay calm in a chaotic environment. Try leash walks in different types of places – new neighborhoods, parks, etc. Also, if they are not familiar with their crate or used to car rides practice so they are comfortable during an evacuation.

Step 5: Stay Informed

Sign up for emergency alerts in your area and follow weather updates. Some resources include FEMA, the Red Cross, or your local government and community alerts.

FEMA also has a 5-minute video with suggestions for proactive pet emergency preparedness.

What to Do During an Emergency to Protect Your Dog

• Stay Calm: Our dogs can sense our emotions like stress, so try to keep a soothing demeanor.
• Keep Your Dog Secure: Always use a leash or carrier to prevent them from running away in panic. Be especially cautious for dogs who are easily triggered when they are out of their routine.  
• Follow Your Plan: Stick to your prepared route and supplies.
• Feed animals moist or canned food so they will need less water to drink.
• Monitor for Stress or Injury: Signs of stress include excessive panting, drooling, shaking, or aggression. Check for injuries and, if needed, go to the vet.

Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Dogs have instincts about severe weather changes or changes in the environment and will often isolate themselves if they are afraid. Bring them inside before they get too scared and run away. Never leave a pet outside or tied up during a storm.
If you must leave or evacuate never leave your furry friend behind! They need you as much as you need them in these stressful situations.

After the Disaster: Keeping Your Dog Safe

It’s best to dive right back into your dog’s routine. Before letting them run loose, make sure you check the surrounding areas for any dangerous debris like broken glass or contaminated water. If your pet shows signs of stress or anxiety, give them extra comfort and reassurance.

Disaster preparedness isn’t just for humans—it’s for our beloved dogs too. Taking proactive steps today can save your dog from injury tomorrow. Keeping yourself and your pet pal safe is always the #1 priority.  

We’d like to share a little message about love: 

Our Happy Hound family recently lost a beloved member—Truly, a sweet and cherished dog who meant the world to us. She was the heart of Suzanne, the owner of Happy Hound, and their bond was something very special.

Suzanne adored Truly with her whole being, and as you can imagine, the loss is deeply felt. Every day, take a moment to pause and intentionally soak in the love around you—from your dog, your family, your friends, and your community. It’s precious and can be fleeting. This month, our blog is dedicated to Truly. She lived a wonderful 15 years filled with unconditional love from those around her. Always a pup at heart, she played joyfully with her furry friends, soaked up endless pets, hugs, and kisses—and, of course, she never turned down a treat.

Truly will always be in our hearts. ❤️ And remember—hug your furry bestie today.