SHTF essentials: What to pack in a pet preparedness kit

By zoeysky // 2022-12-07

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According to data, at least 70 percent of American households have pets. Many of these pets are also treated like family so if you're a prepper, it makes sense to pack a pet preparedness kit or bug-out bag for your four-legged best friend. Before SHTF, make sure your cat, dog or other pet has supplies in their own preparedness kit. (h/t to PreparednessAdvice.com) Below are some items you may want to include in a pet emergency kit:

Pet food for at least two weeks, dog bowls

You need at least two weeks' worth of pet food so you have enough to feed your dog if you are dealing with a long-term SHTF scenario. Buy folding bowls that are easy to pack. Remember that your dog also needs water to drink.

Leash, harness, carrier and transport case

You don't want to lose your pet in the panic after SHTF so make sure you have a leash, harness, carrier and transport case for your dog or cat.

Dog shoes/paw protectors, warm clothes

If you live in a state that gets cold, get warm clothes and dog shoes or paw protectors for your pet. This will help protect them from harsh weather conditions or rough terrain.

Extra pet medications

An old dog or a pet with health issues will need at least two weeks to a month's worth of extra medications. If you're packing for a trip or an emergency, let your vet know so they can help you stock up on pet meds. Your pet's tag or collar should also include notes on what medications they're on. If you can't get extra medications for your pets, make a list of vets nearby so you can go to them if you need more after SHTF. (Related: Do you have a first aid kit for your pets?)

Pet first aid kit

Did you know that you can save your dog with pet CPR? Before disaster strikes, learn how to do pet CPR properly. You also have to prepare a pet first aid kit with items you need to provide emergency medical aid for your pet if there's an accident. The kit will include similar items in a first aid kit for humans, like antiseptic cream and bandages for treating wounds. But your pet first aid kit should also come with additional items that are pet-specific, such as:

Anti-worm medications
Flea and tick control items
Flea combs and tick tweezers
No chew bandage

Pet bed, toys and blankets

Like humans, pets will need comfort during a stressful disaster scenario. If you are bugging out to a safe location, bring their bed, toys and blankets so they can feel at home. Pack some of their old toys and items so you don't take away their current toys.

Poop bags or kitty litter

When SHTF, you still need to keep things clean and sanitary to prevent sickness among your family and pets. Bring poop bags and kitty litter for pets so your campsite stays clean.

Recent printed pet photos

If things get too chaotic, you might lose your pet when SHTF. This is why you need recently printed pet photos so it's easier to look for them and ask people if anyone has seen them in the area. The printed photos of your pet should also include any identifying marks, like unusual fur coloration or scars.

Copies of pet medical records

If you need to temporarily leave your pet at a shelter, you will need updated copies of your pet's medical records.

Copy of feeding schedules and any behavioral issues

If you have to ask a family member or friend to keep an eye on your pet for a couple of days, give them a printed, detailed care schedule and notes to help them take care of your pet.

Pet microchip information

Microchip information is important and there are a lot of databases out there. Check who your animal is registered with and if your pet doesn't have a microchip yet, get them one before SHTF so you can find them easily. Print out the microchip information and put a tag on your pet's collar saying they're microchipped.

Regular vet/emergency vet contact information

Get the contact information of your regular vet and an emergency vet. If your pet gets injured, friends, family members or boarding shelters can quickly check who to contact. Make sure emergency contacts also know that they’re your emergency contacts so they can expect a call if something happens.

List of other emergency contact numbers

If something happens to you, your pet documents should also include a list of family, friends, shelters and boarding centers that could take your pet in an emergency. You also need an updated list of shelters that take pets so you don't waste time calling around. Visit PetHealthDaily.com for more tips on how to care for your pets. Watch the video below for some useful tricks you can teach your dog. This video is from the Wellness & Financial Freedom channel on Brighteon.com.

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