Grab & Go Bag
Select the bag
Choose a container that can hold all of your pet’s evacuation items and can still be carried by a family member if you need to leave on foot. Good options include a backpack, tote, plastic bin, duffel bag, suitcase, or a container on wheels. Pick something sturdy, easy to grab, and sized for the items listed below.
Consider containment
Decide whether you want a dedicated cage, crate, or pet carrier specifically for evacuation (see below), or if you plan to use the one your pet already has. If your pet doesn’t currently have one, it’s worth purchasing one for this purpose - being able to safely contain your pet becomes essential if you end up at a shelter. Whichever option you choose, make sure you can quickly grab both the carrier and your pet’s evacuation bag on your way out.
Having your pet’s bag packed and their containment plan settled ahead of time makes evacuating with them far safer and far less stressful than trying to figure it out in the moment.
Containment: Cage, Crate, or Carrier?
Which works best for pet evacuation? Crates and carriers both work for transporting and housing pets, but they serve slightly different purposes. Crates are generally larger and less portable, while carriers are smaller, lighter, and easier to move during an evacuation. As a general rule, medium‑to‑large dogs typically need a crate, while small dogs and cats can use a carrier.
You may be tempted to bring a full‑size metal cage to give your pet more room. Just keep in mind that these cages are made from heavy‑duty metal bars and can be extremely heavy and awkward to move - especially in an emergency. A crate or carrier is almost always the more practical choice.
Choosing the right size
- Measure your pet’s height (top of the head to the ground) and length (tip of the nose to the base of the tail).
- Match the enclosure to those measurements - it should be as tall as your pet’s height and at least as long as their body length.
- Add a few extra inches - this gives your pet enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Bigger is better… within reason - comfort matters, but so does your ability to carry or maneuver the enclosure during an evacuation.
TIP: You can house two small pets together if both of these conditions are met: the enclosure is large enough for both pets to move freely, lie down, and turn around without crowding and the pets are genuinely bonded. Stress can change behavior quickly, so only double up if you’re confident neither pet will become reactive or aggressive toward the other.
Collar with a Tag
Your pets need identification when they leave home. Most dogs already wear tags but this also applies to cats. If your pet gets spooked and breaks loose, the ID gives your pet a much better chance of making it home.
Dogs
Your dog most likely already owns a collar and tag. Purchase a second pair just in case something happens to the original - have it in storage, ready to go.
- Backup collar
- Backup tag with your dog's name, address, and your cell phone number
Cats
Most cats don't wear collars. Placing a collar with an id tag on your cat as you prepare to evacuate just makes sense. Have it in storage, ready to go.
- Cat collar
- Tag with your cat's name, address, and your cell phone number
TIP: Pets can lose collars. Take safety one step further by getting your pet microchipped and remember to update your microchip records if you move. Also, consider attaching a GPS pet tracker to your pet's collar - this will allow you to track your pet just in case.
Leash, Harness, and Muzzle
Even well-trained pets can get spooked during evacuations. All animals should have a way for owners to control and secure them during the process.
Dogs
A harness allows you to control your dog in a way that a leash does not. Include a muzzle if you have even the slightest hint that your dog's temperament will be affected negatively by stress and could result in someone getting bitten.
- leash
- harness
- muzzle
Cats
Attach a harness before you leave. This, along with a leash, will allow you to safely take your cat out of its carrier and to maintain better control. Once evacuated, never take your cat out of its carrier except in an enclosed environment.
- leash
- harness
TIP: If you know or suspect that your dog will need a muzzle if placed in a stressful situation, it's a good idea to start learning now so you and your dog will be prepared.
Pet Food
Include at least one week of food per pet - being sure to use the brand your pet currently eats. Abrupt changes can cause health issues and that's the last thing you'll want to deal with during an evacuation.
Dry Food
If your pet eats dry food, be sure to use a sealed, unopened bag - keeping it in its original packaging.
Canned Food
If your pet eats canned food, remember to store plastic spoons and a can opener if needed.
Bowls
Each pet should have their own dish - good options include collapsible bowls or lots of disposable plastic bowls. If you choose collaspsible, make sure to include a way to clean it.
Food Storage & Rotation Requirements
- Store in a cool, dry location. Pet food (dry or canned) can go bad quickly if stored in hot, humid conditions. Storage in a garage is not recommended.
- Pay attention to the due date on the food packaging and rotate it into your pet's normal food supply well before it expires. Be sure to purchase a new supply of emergency food to replace it.
TIP: Learn how to build a 3-6 month pet food supply for emergencies. Regularly rotate the evacuation supply through this larger food storage to ensure freshness.
Water
Water is heavy and takes up lots of room. With smaller dogs and cats, this shouldn't be a problem. With larger dogs, it can get a bit tricky as space may become an issue.
Dogs
A general rule of thumb: 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day.
- 90 lb. dog: 11.25 cups per day
- 90 lb. dog: 4.92 gallons per week
- 20 lb. dog: 2.5 cups per day
- 20 lb. dog: 1 gallon & 1.5 cups per week
- collapsible water dish
Cats
A general rule of thumb: 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day.
- 10 lb. cat: 1 cup per day
- 10 lb. cat: almost 1/2 gallon per week
- collapsible water dish
TIP: Include the appropriate amount of water in your pet's grab & go bag. If you have a larger dog, this won't be possible. If you are driving away, you may have enough room. If not, or you are evacuating on foot, take what you can and plan to find resources elsewhere. Be prepared to treat the water if its quality is in question.
Sanitation
Cats
This is an extremely important component of your cat's emergency kit and should not be overlooked. There are disposable litter boxes commonly available at grocery stores. You may prefer to pack 1 or 2 of these for your cat's use, rather than a plastic litter box. Be aware that these contain non-clumping litter, if using clumping litter is important to you.
- litter box - plastic or desposible
- kitty litter - is using plastic
- waste baggies
- scooper
- box liner - optional, if using plastic
- pet bath wipes for general cleaning
Dogs
Dog owners get the better end of this deal - but to help you be a responsible dog owner, you'll want to include sanitation items as well.
- waste baggies - plenty
- pet bath wipes for general cleaning
TIP: You'll want to clean your pet's living area so consider packing a small spray bottle with a pet-friendly cleaner and paper towels.
Medication
If your pet is on any kind of medication, you will want to take this with you. Like human medication, there may be an option to purchase more than one month's worth at a time. If you can do this, store one of the bottles in your pet's grab & go bag at all times and rotate through each.
If you can only have one bottle at a time, include a note that is placed inside your pet's bag, on top of all other contents that reminds you to grab the medication on the way out. Make arrangements for any meds that must be kept cool.
Comfort Items
If you know there are some items that could bring your pet a little bit of comfort during what could be a stressful situation, be sure to include them.
Comfort item examples
- blanket
- favorite treat
- favorite toy
- brush
- light stick
- stuffed animal
TIP: Like other things, you may not be able to pack the very thing your pet enjoys because it's being used. Write these things on your list of things to remember on your way out.
First Aid Kit
Here are some basic first aid supplies. Customize for your pet as needed and place this kit inside your pet's grab & go bag.
Temperature
digital thermometer (normal temps for dog: 99.5˚ to 102.5˚/ for cat: 100.4˚ to 102.5˚) • rubbing alcohol and petroleum jelly (to clean & lubricate thermometer) • instant cold pack
Medications
pain relievers • antihistamines • 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting (use medications listed here only with the supervision of your vet)
Wound Care
blanket • muzzle • tweezers • scissors with blunt ends • gauze & vet wrap (adheres to itself) • antiseptic wipes • Neosporin ointment.
Eyes & Nails
sterile saline eye wash solution • cotton balls or swabs • antibiotic ointment such as Terramycin (non-prescription) • styptic powder (stops bleeding)
TIP: Make sure to include items for yourself such as latex gloves, a flashlight, and phone numbers for the vet's office, the closest emergency vet hospital with its directions, Pet Poison Hotline 1-800-213-6680, and ASPCA Poison-Control Center 1-888-426-4435. Both hotlines are available 24/7 to provide assistance in case of a pet poisoning emergency.
Information Packet
Creating an information packet for each of your pets may help identify, treat, or care for your pet in case you get separated, or if authorities need proof of vaccination status.
- name, address, and owner’s name
- description: species, breed, color, gender, age, distinguishing features
- microchip number
- current photo: both front, back, and with family members to establish ownership
- vet's name and contact info
- proof of vaccinations, especially rabies
- registration and licensing papers for dogs
- medical record showing particular diagnosis - showing medicinal needs, etc.
- brief information on your pet's feeding schedule, temperament/behavior, medical concerns
TIP: Add this information to a card or word document and place it inside a waterproof baggie along with your pet's evacuation plan (see next). Place this sealed baggie securely inside your pet's grab & go bag.
Pet's Evacuation Plan
Two copies of your pet's evacuation plan should be made. One copy should be placed inside a waterproof baggie along with your pet's information packet (see above) and once sealed, placed securely inside your pet’s grab & go bag. The other copy should be given to your pet helper.
The plan can be used as a checklist to get your pet out the door and should include the following:
- items that need to be taken: your pet's grab & go bag, cage/carrier, etc.
- where these items are kept.
- destination option in desired order, with all numbers and addresses
Grab & Go Bag
Select the bag
Choose a container that can hold all of your pet’s evacuation items and can still be carried by a family member if you need to leave on foot. Good options include a backpack, tote, plastic bin, duffel bag, suitcase, or a container on wheels. Pick something sturdy, easy to grab, and sized for the items listed below.
Consider containment
Decide whether you want a dedicated cage, crate, or pet carrier specifically for evacuation (see below), or if you plan to use the one your pet already has. If your pet doesn’t currently have one, it’s worth purchasing one for this purpose - being able to safely contain your pet becomes essential if you end up at a shelter. Whichever option you choose, make sure you can quickly grab both the carrier and your pet’s evacuation bag on your way out.
Having your pet’s bag packed and their containment plan settled ahead of time makes evacuating with them far safer and far less stressful than trying to figure it out in the moment.
Containment: Cage / Crate / Carrier
Which works best for pet evacuation? Crates and carriers both work for transporting and housing pets, but they serve slightly different purposes. Crates are generally larger and less portable, while carriers are smaller, lighter, and easier to move during an evacuation. As a general rule, medium‑to‑large dogs typically need a crate, while small dogs and cats can use a carrier.
You may be tempted to bring a full‑size metal cage to give your pet more room. Just keep in mind that these cages are made from heavy‑duty metal bars and can be extremely heavy and awkward to move - especially in an emergency. A crate or carrier is almost always the more practical choice.
Choosing the right size
- Measure your pet’s height (top of the head to the ground) and length (tip of the nose to the base of the tail).
- Match the enclosure to those measurements - it should be as tall as your pet’s height and at least as long as their body length.
- Add a few extra inches - this gives your pet enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Bigger is better… within reason - comfort matters, but so does your ability to carry or maneuver the enclosure during an evacuation.
Tip: You can house two small pets together if both of these conditions are met: the enclosure is large enough for both pets to move freely, lie down, and turn around without crowding and the pets are genuinely bonded. Stress can change behavior quickly, so only double up if you’re confident neither pet will become reactive or aggressive toward the other.
Collar with a Tag
Your pets need identification when they leave home. Most dogs already wear tags but this also applies to cats. If your pet gets spooked and breaks loose, the ID gives your pet a much better chance of making it home.
Dogs
Your dog most likely already owns a collar and tag. Purchase a second pair just in case something happens to the original - have it in storage, ready to go.
- Backup collar
- Backup tag with your dog's name, address, and your cell phone number
Cats
Most cats don't wear collars. Placing a collar with an id tag on your cat as you prepare to evacuate just makes sense. Have it in storage, ready to go
- Cat collar
- Tag with your cat's name, address, and your cell phone number
Tip: Pets can lose collars. Take safety one step further by getting your pet microchipped and remember to update your microchip records if you move. Also, consider attaching a GPS pet tracker to your pet's collar - this will allow you to track your pet just in case.
Leash, Harness, and Muzzle
Even well-trained pets can get spooked during evacuations. All animals should have a way for owners to control and secure them during the process.
Dogs
A harness allows you to control your dog in a way that a leash does not. Include a muzzle if you have even the slightest hint that your dog's temperament will be affected negatively by stress and could result in someone getting bitten.
- leash
- harness
- muzzle
Cats
Attach a harness before you leave. This, along with a leash, will allow you to safely take your cat out of its carrier and to maintain better control. Once evacuated, never take your cat out of its carrier except in an enclosed environment.
- leash
- harness
Tip: If you know or suspect that your dog will need a muzzle if placed in a stressful situation, it's a good idea to start learning now so you and your dog will be prepared.
Pet Food
Include at least one week of food per pet - being sure to use the brand your pet currently eats. Abrupt changes can cause health issues and that's the last thing you'll want to deal with during an evacuation.
Food
- Dog Food: If your pet eats dry food, be sure to use a sealed, unopened bag - keeping it in its original packaging.
- Canned Food: If your pet eats canned food, remember to store plastic spoons and a can opener if needed.
- Bowls: Each pet should have their own dish - good options include collapsible bowls or lots of disposable plastic bowls. If you choose collaspsible, make sure to include a way to clean it.
Food Storage & Rotation Requirements
- Store in a cool, dry location. Pet food (dry or canned) can go bad quickly if stored in hot, humid conditions. Storage in a garage is not recommended.
- Pay attention to the due date on the food packaging and rotate it into your pet's normal food supply well before it expires. Be sure to purchase a new supply of emergency food to replace it.
Tip: Learn how to build a 3-6 month pet food supply for emergencies. Regularly rotate the evacuation supply through this larger food storage to ensure freshness.
Water
Water is heavy and takes up lots of room. With smaller dogs and cats, this shouldn't be a problem. With larger dogs, it can get a bit tricky as space may become an issue.
Dogs
A general rule of thumb: 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day.
- 90 lb. dog: 11.25 cups per day
- 90 lb. dog: 4.92 gallons per week
- 20 lb. dog: 2.5 cups per day
- 20 lb. dog: 1 gallon & 1.5 cups per week
- collapsible water dish
Cats
A general rule of thumb: 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day.
- 10 lb. cat: 1 cup per day
- 10 lb. cat: almost 1/2 gallon per week
- collapsible water dish
Tip: Include the appropriate amount of water in your pet's grab & go bag. If you have a larger dog, this won't be possible. If you are driving away, you may have enough room. If not, or you are evacuating on foot, take what you can and plan to find resources elsewhere. Be prepared to treat the water if its quality is in question.
Sanitation
Cats
This is an extremely important component of your cat's emergency kit and should not be overlooked.
- litter box - plastic or desposible
- kitty litter - is using plastic
- waste baggies
- scooper
- box liner - optional, if using plastic
- pet bath wipes for general cleaning
Dogs
Dog owners get the better end of this deal - but to help you be a responsible dog owner, you'll want to include sanitation items as well.
- waste baggies - plenty
- pet bath wipes for general cleaning
Tip: You'll want to clean your pet's living area so consider packing a small spray bottle with a pet-friendly cleaner and paper towels.
Medication
If your pet is on any kind of medication, you will want to take this with you. Like human medication, there may be an option to purchase more than one month's worth at a time. If you can do this, store one of the bottles in your pet's grab & go bag at all times and rotate through each.
If you can only have one bottle at a time, include a note that is placed inside your pet's bag, on top of all other contents that reminds you to grab the medication on the way out. Make arrangements for any meds that must be kept cool.
Comfort Items
If you know there are some items that could bring your pet a little bit of comfort during what could be a stressful situation, be sure to include them.
- blanket
- favorite treat
- favorite toy
- brush
- light stick
- stuffed animal
Tip: Like other things, you may not be able to pack the very thing your pet enjoys because its being used. Write these things on your list of things to remember on your way out.
First Aid Kit
Here are some basic first aid supplies. Customize for your pet as needed and place this kit inside your pet's grab & go bag.
Temperature
digital thermometer (normal temps for dog: 99.5˚ to 102.5˚/ for cat: 100.4˚ to 102.5˚) • rubbing alcohol and petroleum jelly (to clean & lubricate thermometer) • instant cold pack
Medications
pain relievers • antihistamines • 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting (use medications listed here only with the supervision of your vet)
Wound Care
blanket • muzzle • tweezers • scissors with blunt ends • gauze & vet wrap (adheres to itself) • antiseptic wipes • Neosporin ointment.
Eyes & Nails
sterile saline eye wash solution • cotton balls or swabs • antibiotic ointment such as Terramycin (non-prescription) • styptic powder (stops bleeding)
Tip: Make sure to include items for yourself such as latex gloves, a flashlight, and phone numbers for the vet's office, the closest emergency vet hospital with its directions, Pet Poison Hotline 1-800-213-6680, and ASPCA Poison-Control Center 1-888-426-4435. Both hotlines are available 24/7 to provide assistance in case of a pet poisoning emergency.
Information Packet
Creating an information packet for each of your pets may help identify, treat, or care for your pet in case you get separated, or if authorities need proof of vaccination status.
- name, address, and owner’s name
- description: species, breed, color, gender, age, distinguishing features
- microchip number
- current photo: both front, back, and with family members to establish ownership
- vet's name and contact info
- proof of vaccinations, especially rabies
- registration and licensing papers for dogs
- medical record showing particular diagnosis - showing medicinal needs, etc.
- brief information on your pet's feeding schedule, temperament/behavior, medical concerns
Tip: Add this information to a card or word document and place it inside a waterproof baggie along with your pet's evacuation plan (see next). Place this sealed baggie securely inside your pet's grab & go bag.
Pet's Evacuation Plan
Two copies of your pet's evacuation plan should be made. One copy should be placed inside a waterproof baggie along with your pet's information packet (see above) and once sealed, placed securely inside your pet’s grab & go bag. The other copy should be given to your pet helper.
The plan can be used as a checklist to get your pet out the door and should include the following:
- items that need to be taken: your pet's grab & go bag, cage/carrier, etc.
- where these items are kept.
- destination option in desired order, with all numbers and addresses