Skip to main content

Making Plans for Your Pets: Emergency & Long-Term Care

Responsible pet ownership extends beyond daily care; it includes planning for the unexpected. Whether it's a short-term emergency like a natural disaster or the need for long-term care in your absence, having a solid plan in place is the best way to ensure your beloved companions are always safe and cared for [1].

This guide covers two critical areas of planning: preparing for emergencies and arranging for your pet's long-term future.

Part 1: Emergency and Disaster Preparedness​

When a disaster strikes, your pets are completely dependent on you for their safety. If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. Never leave your pets behind during an evacuation [2].

1. Create a "Go-Kit"​

Assemble a portable emergency kit for your pets in an easy-to-grab container. According to the American Red Cross and the ASPCA, your kit should include [3, 4]:

  • Food and Water: A 3-7 day supply of your pet's regular food and bottled water.
  • Medications: A one-week supply of any necessary medications, along with a list of dosages and your vet's contact information.
  • First-Aid Kit: A pet-specific first-aid kit.
  • Collar with ID and Leash: Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with up-to-date identification tags. Pack an extra leash or harness.
  • Important Documents: Copies of registration, vaccination records, and a recent photo of you with your pet to prove ownership.
  • Carrier or Crate: A sturdy, appropriately sized carrier for each pet, clearly labeled with your contact information.
  • Familiar Items: A favorite toy, blanket, or bedding to help reduce stress.
  • Sanitation: For small pets, pack a small bag of their bedding/litter, a small litter pan, and cleaning supplies.

2. Develop an Evacuation Plan​

Identify a safe place to go with your pets well in advance. Remember that most public emergency shelters do not accept pets (except for service animals) [5].

  • Pet-Friendly Shelters: Contact your local emergency management office to find out if there are any pet-friendly shelters in your area.
  • Hotels and Motels: Research pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation route.
  • Friends and Family: Arrange with friends or relatives outside your immediate area to shelter you and your pets.
  • Veterinarians or Boarding Kennels: Ask your vet or local boarding facilities if they offer emergency shelter.

3. Establish a Buddy System​

Arrange a buddy system with a trusted neighbor or nearby friend. Give them a key to your home and authorize them to evacuate your pets if you are not able to get home during an emergency. Ensure they are familiar with your pets, your go-kit, and your evacuation plan [6].

Part 2: Planning for Long-Term Care​

Planning for a time when you may no longer be able to care for your pets is a difficult but essential act of love. It ensures they will continue to receive the care they deserve for the rest of their lives.

1. Identify a Permanent Caregiver​

Choose one or more trusted individuals who could take on the responsibility of caring for your pets. Discuss this with them beforehand to ensure they are willing and able to accept this role. Provide them with detailed information about your pet's health, diet, and personality.

2. Create a "Pet Dossier"​

Compile a comprehensive document with all the information a new caregiver would need:

  • Health and Medical: Veterinarian contact info, medical history, vaccination records, medication schedule, and any chronic conditions.
  • Diet: Type of food, feeding schedule, portion sizes, and any dietary restrictions or favorite treats.
  • Behavior and Personality: Likes, dislikes, fears, habits, and social needs (e.g., needs to be the only pet, loves to be with other animals).
  • Daily Routine: A summary of their typical day.

3. Make It Legally Binding​

A verbal agreement is not enough. To ensure your wishes are carried out, you should formalize your plan. Options include:

  • Pet Trust: This is a legally sanctioned arrangement that provides for the care and maintenance of your pet(s) in the event of your disability or death. You can specify a caregiver and provide funds to cover the cost of care [7].
  • Will: You can include a provision in your will that names a beneficiary for your pet and provides a sum of money for their care. However, a will does not take effect until after your death and can be contested.

Consulting with an attorney who specializes in estate planning can help you decide the best option for your situation.

References​

[1] ASPCA. (n.d.). Making a Plan for Your Pet. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-planning/making-plan-your-pet

[2] American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Pets and disasters. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/emergency-care/pets-and-disasters

[3] American Red Cross. (n.d.). Pet Disaster Preparedness & Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html

[4] ASPCA. (n.d.). Disaster Preparedness. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness

[5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, April 9). Be Prepared: Pet Safety in Emergencies. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/emergency-preparedness/index.html

[6] Ready.gov. (2024, June 3). Prepare Your Pets for Disasters. Retrieved from https://www.ready.gov/pets

[7] Best Friends Animal Society. (n.d.). Estate Planning for Pets: Preparing a Will or Trust. Retrieved from https://bestfriends.org/pet-care-resources/estate-planning-pets-preparing-will-or-trust

Important: This is not a substitute for veterinary care.

The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you suspect your pet is ill, injured, or in distress, contact a licensed veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt any medical treatments, procedures, or dietary changes without the guidance and supervision of a qualified veterinary professional.