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Planning for Evacuation: Dogs and Cats

Steps to Take Before Evacuation

• Familiarize your pet(s) with evacuation procedures and carriers. Several times a year, take out the cage/carrier and place dog/cat treats inside, along with blankets and toys. This will help the animal famliarize themselves with the carrier, and the carrier with be reinforced with positive feelings.
• Purchase a collapsible cage or an airline approved carrier should be available for each pet, and each carrier/cage should be bedded properly. If you don’t have enough carriers for your pets, know that this could mean the difference between life and death for your pet: carriers help assist a speedy evacuation.
• Cat carriers should be large enough to hold a small litter pan, two small dishes, and still allow your cat to lie down comfortably or stand to use the littler pan.
  
• Dog kennels/cages should be large enough to hold two no-spill bowls and still allow enough room for your dog to stand and turn around in.
  
• Clearly label each carrier and provide each animal with a tag that contains identification and contact information.
• Prepare a list of your animal's emergency contacts: one copy for the home, and one copy for evacuation.
• Prepare your small pet first aid kit, pet emergency supply kit, and small pet evacuation kit.