Guide, United States

Pet emergency kit list

How we wrote this: researched from the public sources listed at the end of the page. General information, not medical or legal advice. Last checked 2 November 2026.

Ready.gov is direct about pets: if you evacuate, they evacuate with you. That means they need their own kit and a place to go. Here is the list, and the gear that makes it easier to carry.

The Ready.gov pet kit

Food for several days, in an airtight, waterproof container.
Water for several days, and a bowl.
Medicine: an extra supply of regular medicines, in a waterproof container.
First aid: ask your veterinarian what suits your pet.
ID and a backup lead: a collar with tags, a harness or leash, and a spare set.
Records: registration and vaccination papers, in a waterproof bag and saved on your phone.
A carrier for each pet, sturdy enough to travel in.
Sanitation: litter and tray, paper towels, bags and household bleach.
A photo of you with your pet, to show they are yours if you are separated.
Familiar items: a toy, treats or bedding.

Ready.gov suggests two kits: a larger one for sheltering at home and a light one for leaving.

Carry it: carriers and leads

Water and care on the move

Plan where they go

Many public shelters and hotels do not take pets. Before you need it, find a pet friendly hotel, a friend or relative out of the area, or a boarding kennel. Set up a buddy who can collect your pets if you are not home. Microchip them and keep the contact details current.

Keep the human kit next to the pet kit: the 72 hour kit for a family of four covers people. Write your pet plan into the free 72-Hour Family Plan, and see the whole pets range.

FAQ

What goes in a pet emergency kit? Food and water for several days, medicine, first aid, ID and a spare lead, records, a carrier, sanitation, a photo with your pet and familiar items, per Ready.gov.

Can I take my pet to an emergency shelter? Many shelters do not accept pets, so plan a pet friendly place to go ahead of time.

How often should I refresh it? Check it regularly so food and medicine stay fresh, as Ready.gov advises.