Natural disasters seem to be happening more and more … and they are just as dangerous for pets as they are for people. At Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital in San Rafael, CA and the surrounding areas, we take pet safety seriously. We always urge our clients to err on the side of caution when it comes to safety. Being prepared in advance can make a huge difference, especially when emergencies hit unexpectedly.
This blog covers essential pet emergency preparedness tips to help you handle everything from power outages and storms to car accidents and first aid situations. Knowing what to do before you need to do it could save your furry friend’s life.
What should I include in a pet emergency kit?
A complete pet emergency kit can help you keep your dog or cat safe, calm, and fed during evacuations. We recommend putting an emergency pet kit together.
Your kit should include:
- Food and water for at least 3–5 days (include bowls and a can opener)
- Medications and a copy of your pet’s prescription
- Leash, collar, and ID tags
- Blankets or bedding
- Litter and disposable bags for waste
- First aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers
- Recent photos
- Medical records and other documentation
Store everything in a waterproof bag or container and keep it somewhere you can access quickly. Ideally, keep it near your pet’s carrier, so you only have to grab one thing on your way out.
How to prepare for natural disasters with pets
Weather can be unpredictable—floods, hurricanes, and heatwaves are real threats. Earthquakes are also not uncommon here in California.
Here’s how to stay ready:
- Make a pet evacuation plan
- Keep carriers and leashes by the door
- Microchip your pet and keep contact info updated
- Display a pet rescue decal for first responders
Talk to your vet about travel anxiety, medications, or sedation options if your pet gets nervous during storms or car rides.
Pet first aid tips every owner should know
When it comes to how to prepare for pet emergencies, first aid can mean the difference between life and death. If your pet is ever injured, you would of course need to seek urgent veterinary care. However, you may need to perform first aid yourself to stabilize your pet until you get to a vet clinic. That kit won’t help if you don’t know what to do! Download a pet first aid app, or get a brochure.
Some key areas include the following:
- How to control bleeding with clean gauze
- How to check for breathing and pulse
- What to do if your pet is choking
- Signs of heatstroke like panting, vomiting, or collapse
Information is also key to your pet first aid checklist. Keep your vet’s number saved in your phone and know the nearest emergency animal hospital. It’s also a good idea to enroll in a basic pet first aid course.
Contact Our San Rafael, CA Pet Hospital
Emergencies are scary. But when you’ve planned ahead and packed what your pet needs, you’ll be better able to act fast and stay calm. At Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital, your San Rafael, CA pet clinic, we want to empower pet owners with the tools and knowledge to protect their furry companions in any situation.
!Social Media Icons