Dog Essentials for Your Evacuation Kit

In light of the recent floods in Queensland and the devestating effect it has had on both people and animals, I thought I’d share some tips on what you can do to prepare for your dog’s welfare in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

Many families have an emergency or evacuation kit stocked with essentials like food, water and other items to help through a relocation as a result of fire, flood or other natural disaster. When stocking your evacuation kit, remember to include a first-aid kit for your dog as well as the following items:

Water and Food

Make sure there is enough dried and canned food for your dog for two weeks. You should check expiration dates on the food labels and replace water every couple of months. Make sure you have a can-opener and spoons in the kit too! Your kit should also have a small portable water bowl made of soft material (these can be purchased at camping stores) and food bowls. Include your dog’s favourite treats too.

Essential Equipment

Make sure you have also packed the following items for your dog in your evacuation kit:

• Muzzle (frightened dogs may bite) – you can buy either a soft or hard muzzle from most pet stores.
• Bitter Apple or other product that discourages licking (some dogs do this when nervous).
• Pet carrier.
• Spare lead and collar (with a tag that has your contact details).
• A blanket/thermal blanket and some toys.
• Poo bags/plastic bags and disinfectant.
• Grooming, dental cleaning supplies and soap.

Essential papers

Your kit should have two copies of the following papers:

• Updated vaccination certificate.
• Pet insurance details and policy number. 
• Microchip/tattoo ID and documentation.
• Photos of you with your dog. Write your dog’s name and your contact details on the back of the photos. (Make sure the contact details of a friend or relative is also recorded on the back of the photos, in case you cannot be reached).
• Prood of ownership, such as registration, purchase or adoption papers.

Your should also have a list of the contact details for the following places:

• Your vet and any secondary vets.
• Nearest emergency animal hospitals, clinics or poison centres (which may be required if your dog becomes ill or injured).
• Animal shelters, pet friendly motels, boarding facilities, microchip/tattoo ID centres. These numbers are good to have if you are either looking to find accommodation for your pet or if you are in the unfortunate position of looking for your dog. 

One copy of these papers and the list of contact details can be placed in the evacuation kit with your other personal papers (in a ziplock bag or container). The second set of papers can be placed in a ziplock bag and taped to the inside wall of the pet carrier. Make a note with indelible ink on the outside of the carrier that there is important information about the dog and owner within. This is an especially useful measure if you want to make it easier to reclaim your dog, should you become separated.

Medication

The evacuation kit should have a supply of any medication your dog takes regularly, including monthly doses of heartworm/intestinal worm/flea preventatives. Keep these medications dry in waterproof containers.

Should your dog be prone to anxiety as a result of changes in routine or bad weather (such as storms), ask your vet about any remedies that may be worth storing into your evacuation kit.

I hope this information makes any evacuation period in unfortunate circumstances easier for you, your family and your dogs.

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About the Author

Mia Montagliani, known by her clients as "The Aussie Dog Whisperer", is a highly sought after expert in dog training. Discover how you can apply the same techniques as professional dog trainers to improve your dog's behaviour by downloading Mia's complimentary dog training guides and video. Don't forget to follow Mia on Facebook.