Hurricane Harvey carved a devastating path as it moved across the Gulf of Mexico and into Texas, leaving behind loss of life, displaced families, and countless pets separated from their owners as people rushed to safer ground. While Utah may not face hurricanes, no region is immune to natural disasters. Wildfires, earthquakes, floods, winter storms, and tornadoes can strike with little warning, making preparation essential for everyone—including pet owners.
When an emergency unfolds, there is rarely time to think clearly or gather supplies. In many situations, people must evacuate quickly, sometimes with nothing more than what they can carry. That’s why planning ahead is critical. Preparing for a wildfire, flood, earthquake, or severe storm should always include a clear plan for your pets. Ask yourself now: What will happen to your dog or cat if disaster strikes? Creating a plan and assembling a pet disaster kit in advance can make all the difference.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise that leaving pets behind during an emergency is dangerous. Abandoned pets face a high risk of injury, becoming lost, or even death. In addition, pets left behind may put their owners and emergency responders at risk during rescue efforts. Responsible pet owners should know in advance which shelters are pet-friendly and what resources are available during an evacuation. Including your pets in your emergency plan helps protect them and gives you peace of mind during a crisis.
When developing your disaster plan, think about the types of emergencies most likely to affect Utah and your specific community. Emergencies often occur with little notice, so preparation is key.
Make Sure Your Pet Wears a Collar and ID Tags
Ensure your pet’s collar is secure and that identification tags display current phone numbers and contact details.
Microchip Your Pet
Microchipping significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet if you become separated. Be sure the microchip is registered and your information is kept up to date.
Have a Carrier for Each Pet
Every pet should have their own crate or carrier labeled with their name, your name, address, and phone number. Introduce your pet to their carrier well before an emergency. Practice short car rides to help them feel comfortable inside the crate.
Keep Leashes and Carriers Near an Exit
Store leashes, harnesses, and carriers close to a door for quick access. Securing your pet in a harness or crate during travel helps reduce stress and keeps everyone safer while evacuating.
Decide Where You and Your Pet Will Stay
Emergency situations often limit housing options, so planning ahead is essential.
Shelter in Place
If staying at home is safe, choose a secure interior room with minimal windows. Remove toxic items and ensure your pet cannot hide in unsafe spaces where you may not be able to reach them.
Shelter in a Facility
Confirm in advance whether local emergency shelters in your Utah community allow pets. Contact your city or county emergency management office to learn about pet-friendly shelter options.
If alternative accommodations are needed:
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Contact local animal shelters, humane societies, and your veterinarian for emergency boarding information.
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Check with friends or family ahead of time to confirm your pet is welcome.
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Identify pet-friendly hotels along potential evacuation routes.
Prepare a Pet Disaster Kit
Food and Water
Pack at least two weeks’ worth of food and water for each pet. Store food in airtight, waterproof containers and include a manual can opener if canned food is used.
Cats
Include a litter box, cat litter, and disposable liners.
Dogs
Bring plenty of pet waste bags to maintain sanitation during sheltering or travel.
Cleaning Supplies
Have essential cleaning items such as paper towels, trash bags, disinfectant, and bleach if sheltering in place.
Medications
Keep a minimum of two weeks’ supply of all medications your pet requires.
Medical Records
Include copies of important veterinary documents, such as:
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Current vaccination records
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Rabies vaccination certificates for dogs and cats
Staying calm during an emergency can be challenging, but maintaining composure helps keep both you and your pet safe. Remember to care for your own health as well as your pet’s during stressful situations.
Wash your hands after handling your pet, cleaning up waste, or touching shared surfaces. Disaster environments can expose both people and animals to unfamiliar bacteria or illnesses.
Always wash your hands before handling food or treats. Emergency shelters and temporary housing areas may be unsanitary, and proper hygiene helps prevent illness.
Clean litter boxes carefully and wash your hands afterward. Access to medical care may be limited during disasters, so preventing the spread of disease is especially important.
Preparing in advance and following these safety steps can make a critical difference during an emergency. With proper planning, you can ensure that both you and your pets remain protected until the situation has passed.
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Happy Tails!
