Packing Up Your Pet for Travel

 

Don't forget to pack your pet's bag when you need to travel or evacuate.  Here is a quick check list for you to make sure you don't miss anything!
 

Food & Water

Make sure to pack food and water for your travels.  If you're going on an extended stay or for an evacuation, have at least one week's supply of dry food in an air-tight container.  Keep bottled water on hand and you can even reuse a 2 liter soda bottle to save money.
Don't forget to include bowls for food and water during your travel.  You can find a variety of travel bowls at various pet suppliers.  A weighted bottom bowl will help to prevent spillage even in transit.
 

Medical Information & Supplies

Keep a copy of your medical records, particularly vaccinations in their bag.  Also be sure to pack any medications and instructions you use regularly.
 

Identification

Unlike humans, your pet can't say their name and address if separated from you for any reason.  So a pet ID strategy is esential during these times.  Here are some ideas:
1.) PetFinder Tag.  This is a basic pet tag with ONE very important feature.  It helps those who find your pet find YOU no matter where you are at the time. 
2.) Regular Tags. Make sure your pet has regular tags with updated information. 
3.) Temporary Regular Tag.  If you're going to be in an area for more than a couple of days, you may want to get a secondary tag with local contact information for your stay. (Use of the PetFinder Tag will eliminate this.)
4.) Microchip Your Pet.  You can have an ID Microchip implanted into your loved one which can be scanned by vets or shelters.  Always make sure you keep YOUR contact info up to date with the Microchip system.
5.) Keep a recent picture of your pet with you should you become separated.  Check out our Furry Family & Friend Fact Sheet to help keep your pet's information handy during these times.
 

Restrain & Contain

You should restrain or contain your pet while in transit and if you're staying in a pet friendly shelter. 
1.) Keep extra collar(s) and leash(es) on hand as a precaution.
2.) Keep a pet carrier for your size animal.  There are several to choose from in pet supply stores.  Note: if you are a cat owner and your cat detests the crate/carrier, try a pet bag.  Cats seems to prefer these over the standard carriers and they're great for small dogs too.
3.) Buckle your pets up in the car if not in a carrier.  Another idea, is to look into a pet car seat. (Yes they make those too!)
 

Poop & Scoop

Yes, this is a concern too.  For dogs, keep clean-up bags available.  For cats, keep a small litter box available and if possible use a scoopable odor eliminating product.
 

Play Pretties

Don't forget to pack the fun and everyday esential stuff too!  Grab your pet's favorite toys, blankie, pillow, etc.  Having similar items around can help ease the anxiety of your pet.  If you have regular grooming routines, pack the combs and brushes too.  Try to keep the routines as normal as possible to help reduce stress.
 
If you believe you will be evacuating, leave as early as possible to ensure a less stressful event for you and your furry family!.