If you and your pet need to evacuate your home, you may not have a lot of time to figure out what to take along. The list of items below are what you should have packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice. Keep these items at an easy to access place. Placing them in a large covered plastic container (expect, of course, the kennel) works well. 
This list is handy whether you are taking your pet with you or having the pet stay somewhere safe. Right now, make a list of friends, relatives, pet-friendly motels, and kennels outside a potential disaster area so you can contact who ever you need in case of a pending evacuation.
THE LIST
- All pets, need a collar and identification tag. The tag should have your cell phone number on the tag, not your home phone.
- Current photos of your pet in case they get lost
- Copies of updated vaccination certificates (this will be required by shelters)
- Food- a minimum one week’s supply of food in water-tight container
- Water – a minimum one week’s supply of one week’s supply of water
- Leash and harness
- Litterbox and litter for cats
- Appropriate size pet carrier
- Newspaper or towels for crate lining
- Trash bags for pet-waste disposal
- Any toy that your pet needs for comfort
Planning ahead for an evacuation route for your family and pets is crucial. Do it now and be safe later!