Winter Emergency Preparedness Guide for Dogs

When emergency strikes, having a plan can make all the difference. If you live in an area that’s prone to inclement weather, it’s a good idea to have a few steps in place to make sure you’re prepared for the worst, including having a plan in place for your canine pal. Here are some of the preparations you can make now so your dog is safe later. 

Pack a to-go bag

You’ve probably heard of packing a to-go bag for your family in case of an emergency but have you considered what your dog would need? Here are some of the things you’ll want to make sure you have packed in your emergency to-go bag so your canine companion is covered:

1. Medications

If your dog has regular medication he has to take, make sure you pack at least a couple week’s supply in case you can’t get home or to the vet for awhile

2. Blankets

In case you’re stuck outside for a period of time, pack warm gear to keep both you and your furry friend warm and dry

3. Leash and harnesses

Don’t forget to pack your dog’s leash, harness, and any other walking gear 

4. Food and water bowl 

Just make sure they’re plastic, to avoid broken glass

5. Non-perishable food

You’ll want to pack enough non-perishable dog food for a few days, in case you can’t get to the store right away

6. Frozen fresh food

If your dog is used to a fresh food diet, you’ll want to make sure that you pack some frozen fresh food as well, especially if your dog has food allergy concerns that preclude him from eating dry kibble

Have a dog-friendly safe space in mind where you can stay

If you need to stay with a friend or relative due to an emergency, make sure it’s someone who will be okay with your dog staying with them as well. If you’re going to be staying at a hotel or motel, make sure you locate ones nearby that allow pets. It’s also a good idea to have a back-up plan for someone who can keep your dog on a temporary basis, in case you aren’t able to get to a dog-friendly location.

Update your dog’s microchip information

Even with the most meticulous planning, you can’t prepare for every possible situation. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you have your dog’s microchip information up-to-date with your phone number, and preferably a back-up number of someone you are in close contact with, in case your phone is lost or unavailable during an emergency situation. If your dog isn’t microchipped yet, consider talking with your vet about getting him microchipped - it’s one of the best things you can do to ensure your dog’s safety in case of separation.