Prepare Your Pets

Emergencies move quickly. Make your plan, gather supplies, and arrange transportation before you need them.

Make A Plan

Identify several places outside your area where you and your pets could stay.
Plan more than one evacuation route.
Choose someone who can reach your pets if you are away.
Keep carriers, leashes, and harnesses easy to access.
Practice loading each animal into your vehicle.

Keep ID and Records Current

Microchip your pets and update your contact information when it changes.
Use collars with current identification tags.
Keep recent photos of each pet and photos of you together.
Save vaccination records, medication instructions, veterinary contacts, and emergency contacts in print and digital formats.

Build a Pet Emergency Kit

Include:

Food and water for several days
Medications
Bowls and a manual can opener
Leashes, harnesses, and secure carriers
Waste bags, litter, and sanitation supplies
Basic first-aid supplies
Copies of identification and medical records
A familiar blanket, toy, or other comfort item

Review food, water, medications, records, and contact information regularly.

Stay Informed

Sign up for Mesa County emergency alerts. During an emergency, follow instructions from public-safety and emergency-management authorities. If you are told to evacuate, leave early, take your pets, and do not delay while waiting for assistance.

For more guidance, visit Ready.gov’s pet preparedness page or the American Veterinary Medical Association’s disaster-planning resources.