Having an emergency kit for your car and home are something most people do, but what about one for your pet? Every pet owner should have a pet survival kit, which includes the basic first-aid items on hand in the event of an emergency.
It can be easy to forget about your pets when you are busy getting a survival kit together for your family, but since your pets are obviously family too, it is important that you take the time to make an emergency kit for them. If a major disaster occurs or if something happens while you are traveling with your beloved pet, you will undoubtedly want to be prepared. In order to ensure your pets are well taken care of, you should have a few specific items on hand.
Many people mistakenly believe that they can feed human food to their pets if they absolutely have to, but cats, dogs and other animals have different nutritional needs. In addition to food, there are a handful of other considerations that you should keep in mind when making a pet survival kit.
Pet Food
First and foremost, it is imperative that you have a good amount of pet food (start with at least a two-week supply) in your kit. Won’t it go bad, you ask? It depends. If you purchase high-quality pet food – such as one of the many natural or holistic options – it should last longer than the cheap stuff. For long-term storage consider getting a few airtight containers. Another option is to buy canned food, but you will need to remember to include a can opener in your kit if you go this route.
Water and Food Bowls
It can’t hurt to include a few extra bowls in your emergency kit. They don’t take up much space (especially if you get the collapsible kind) and will make feeding your pet much easier in a high-stress situation.
Biodegradable Bags for Waste Disposal
In the event of a disaster, you surely don’t want to be stowed away with your pet with no way to clean up after him when he goes to the bathroom. Biodegradable waste bags are affordable and very packable. Another option is to toss in some baking soda, litter and newspapers for easy clean-up, and to remove the smell.
Pet Medications
If you have a senior pet or an animal that requires any medications, it is imperative you include them in your survival kit. The next time you visit the vet ask for a few extra doses, they will undoubtedly understand once you tell them what it is for.
Basic First-Aid Supplies
In addition to the above items that may be specific to your particular pet, be sure and include the following basic first-aid supplies in your emergency kit:
- Absorbent gauze pads
- Adhesive tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Blanket
- Cotton balls or swabs
- Ice pack
- Scissors
- Rectal thermometer
- Tweezers
- Pet carrier
- Pillow case
You may also want to have your vet’s phone number on hand as well as any documents pertaining to your pet and a list of medications they are on or need. Don’t forget to include an extra leash and collar, just in case. If you have any questions, please give our veterinary clinic a call today.
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