Updated on March 06, 2025
Your Pet(s)
Of course, you love your pet(s)! Planning is essential - it could save your pet's life and make yours much easier during an emergency.
View Emergency Management BC's prepare your pets guide.
- Acquire a pet carrier (portable carrier) or crate for each house pet and familiarize the pet with the portable kennel
- Be sure your pet's vaccinations and records are up to date.
- Have a leash and properly fitting collar with current license or ID tag and vaccinations - a valid license is the best way to reunite owners and dogs.
- Determine the best location in your home to place your pets during an emergency. Site should be away from windows and in a utility area, bathroom, kitchen or easily cleaned area.
- Get an ample supply of *dry pet food.
- Get plenty of newspaper kitty litter, plastic bags, cleanser and disinfectants to properly handle pet waste.
- Have non-spill water and food bowls.
- Have a week's supply of any medications that your pet is taking.
- Have photographs of your pets to aid in the identification of your pet should it stray during an emergency
- A blanket or towels should be a part of your Pet Emergency Kit.
If you plan to leave your house and leave your pet(s) behind, remember;
- Birds must eat daily to survive. Use special food and water dispensers if you must leave them behind.
- Never leave a cat with a dog even if the two are normally friendly.
- Provide access to high places, such as counter tops, in case flooding occurs.
- Difficult or dangerous animals should be left in special crates or cages to reduce the possibility of them getting loose.
*Store dry pet food in a plastic container in your freezer to extend shelf life.