National Pet Preparedness Month: Because Our Pets Count on Us

When a natural disaster hits, we rush to protect our loved ones, but in the panic, pets are often left behind. That is why June is National Pet Preparedness Month: to raise awareness about the critical need to include pets in emergency planning. Whether it's a wildfire, hurricane, flood, or extended power outage, your pet’s safety depends entirely on your readiness. This month serves as a wake-up call to all pet owners. Preparedness is not optional; it is part of responsible care.

Dog in Flood Water

Why Is Pet Preparedness Often Overlooked?

Despite pets being seen as family, many emergency response plans focus exclusively on humans. When evacuation orders come suddenly, pet owners without a plan may face heartbreaking choices. Others may assume they will be able to return home quickly or that shelters will accommodate animals, which is not always the case.

The result is that each year, thousands of animals are displaced, injured, or left to survive on their own during crises that could have been planned for.

Building a Pet Preparedness Plan

Preparation does not have to be complicated, but it must be intentional. Here is how you can start today:

1. Build a Pet Emergency Go-Bag: Prepare a portable emergency kit for each pet:

• Three to five days of food and bottled water

• Food and water bowls

• Current medications and veterinarian information

• Vaccination and ownership records

• Collar with up-to-date ID tags

• Crate or carrier with your contact information

• Waste disposal items (bags, litter, etc.)

• Comfort item such as a toy, towel, or blanket

• A recent printed photo of your pet (in case you are separated)

2. Know Where You Can Go: Not all emergency shelters or hotels allow pets. Research the following in advance:

• Pet-friendly hotels in your area and along evacuation routes

• Local emergency pet shelters or rescues

• Friends or family members who could temporarily house your pet

3. Microchip and ID Your Pet: If your pet runs off or is separated from you, a microchip significantly improves the chances of a reunion. Make sure your contact details are current with the chip registry.

4. Practice Your Plan: Run through your emergency plan at least once a year. Practice loading pets into crates, using their emergency kit, and reviewing evacuation procedures with your household.

5. Create a Backup Plan: What if you are not home during an emergency? Identify a trusted neighbor or friend who can access your home and follow your pet plan if needed.

Additional Resources

• ASPCA Pet Disaster Preparedness Checklist

• Ready.gov Pet and Animal Emergency Planning

• American Red Cross Pet First Aid App

• Local animal control or emergency management office for regional shelter options

Be the Calm in the Chaos

Our pets give us comfort, loyalty, and unconditional love. The least we can do in return is ensure they are protected when the unexpected happens. This National Pet Preparedness Month, take action not out of fear, but out of love. Planning ahead could mean the difference between safety and uncertainty for the animals who depend on us most. Authored By: Tyana Fenton