How Do You Prepare for a Natural Disaster or Storm When You Have a Pet?

When severe weather threatens, your emergency plan should include every member of the household — including the four-legged ones. Pets can’t pack a bag or read an evacuation order, so a little advance work from you can make the difference between chaos and a safer outcome.

Build a pet go-bag

Assemble a waterproof kit and store it with your family’s emergency supplies. Include:

At least 3–7 days of food and water (plus water bowls).
Medications, copies of vet records, and microchip information.
A leash, harness, carrier, and a familiar blanket or toy.
Waste bags, litter, and basic first-aid items.
A recent photo of you with your pet (for identification if you get separated).
A portable kennel and/or a pet travel backpack, ready to use.

Know where you can go

Not every shelter accepts animals. Identify pet-friendly hotels, boarding facilities, or friends and family outside the risk area before a storm is forecast. Confirm carrier size limits and vaccination requirements. If someone else cares for your pets, leave written instructions including your contact information and your veterinarian’s contact information.

ID and secure your pet

Make sure collars have up-to-date tags and that microchip registration lists current phone numbers. In high winds or flooding, keep pets indoors or in a secure carrier — never leave them tied outside or in a car.

Practice the plan

Do a short drill: load the carrier, grab the go-bag, and walk through your exit route. Calm, familiar routines reduce stress when a real alert hits.

Review pet insurance before you need it

Pet insurance won’t stop storms, but it can ease the cost of injury, illness, or emergency care that often follows disasters (cuts from debris, stomach issues from contaminated water, stress-related problems). Before disaster strikes:

Confirm what your plan covers (accidents, illness, emergencies) and any waiting periods or exclusions.
Save the claims app or portal and a copy of your policy declarations with your go-bag.
Ask whether tele-vet or out-of-network ER visits are covered if your usual clinic is closed.
If you don’t have coverage, compare plans now — policies usually don’t cover pre-existing conditions, so buying after an injury won’t help. Your ABI Insurance agent can provide you with a pet insurance quote. 503-292-1580.

After the storm

Downed wires, contaminated water, and debris are dangerous for curious noses. Walk pets on a leash, watch for signs of injury or anxiety, and contact your vet if something seems off. Don’t let them drink floodwater or scavenge. If you normally let your pet roam in a fenced backyard, check that the fence is secure before letting your pet outside.

For exotic animals or larger pets, talk to your veterinarian in advance about their needs during an emergency. Your pets depend on you — prepare once, then update the bag when food expires or meds change. When the next watch or warning is issued, you’ll be ready.