A little purr-paredness can save valuable time for the whole family during a disaster, whether you need to evacuate or hunker down at home.
Be ready with a pre-packed grab-and-go kit for you—and one for your pets—so you can get what you need and get to safety ASAP. But what should your pet emergency kit have in it?
Pet food: Keeping pets fed is fundamental to keeping them comfortable. Include a 5-days’ supply of your pets’ regular food in an airtight container to prevent spoilage. Remember to rotate in fresh cans or bags every six months or so.
Bottled water: Dehydration is a serious concern for pets, and clean water isn’t always available in an emergency. When assembling your to-go kit, pack at least 5 days’ worth of bottled H20.
Pet medication: If your pet needs regular medication, be sure to pack extra in your to-go bag. Talk to your veterinary team about backup prescriptions to have on hand and don’t forget about monthly preventives!
Familiar item: In uncertain situations, a familiar item can help to reduce stress. Pack a well-loved pet blanket, toy or bedding to bring the comforting scent of home wherever you may go.
Portable bowls: Pack spare bowls to make eating and drinking easier and safer. Bonus points if they’re collapsible.
Collar and leash: Always have a backup collar and leash set in your kit. Make sure that the contact info on all ID tags is up to date and any microchip info is included.
Flashlight: A battery-powered flashlight or headlamp is helpful in several emergency situations. With your pet, it can serve as a guiding light for walks or potty excursions. It can also be a lifesaver if a pet runs away. Be sure to pack extra batteries.
Waste disposal: Pack up a small bag of litter and pan for cats or waste bags for dogs.
Medical records: Keep a printed and updated list of medical conditions, vaccinations and medications in the kit for reference. Some shelters will require this information for admittance.
Contact information: Make a handwritten list of important contacts ahead of time to know where to go and conserve precious phone battery when it’s needed the most. Your list should include phone numbers and addresses for:
Photos of pet: Frightened pets may try to run away during an emergency. In case of separation, include a printed photo of you and your pet to help prove ownership.
VetHelpline: Emergency veterinary clinics are often overwhelmed during a crisis. However, you can get expert advice wherever and whenever you need it by downloading Nationwide VetHelpline®.
This app offers Nationwide pet insurance members 24/7 access to veterinary telehealth from licensed veterinary experts. Download it now for everyday advice from the comfort of home, and be ready if the truly unexpected happens.
Rest assured knowing that your pet is protected from the unexpected by Nationwide. In an emergency, your pet insurance coverage is available for us at any licensed veterinary clinic, anywhere. It’s a little extra peace of mind in an uncertain time.
Updated July 2025.