Why Arizonans shouldn’t forget pets when preparing for emergencies

Kimberly Root

Submitted photo

Creating a disaster plan and assembling a pet emergency kit are essential steps to ensure your animals stay safe and healthy during a crisis.”

Arizona’s dry climate and high temperatures make wildfires a year-round threat. Fueled by dry vegetation and strong winds, fires can spread rapidly, and leave communities vulnerable to flooding later.

Having a natural disaster plan and packed emergency kit for pets can help ensure everyone’s safety, including first responders.

Before an emergency

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people familiarize themselves with climate conditions that could affect their area and to have a plan in place for all family members, including pets.

Vaccination records, prescribed medication and other important documents pertaining pets’ health should be easily accessible in case of an emergency. Pet owners should keep a leash near their home’s exit for quick access, and equip vehicles with carriers, harnesses and pet seatbelts for safe travel.

When emergency situations arise, pets should wear collars and tags with their owner’s contact information. It’s also important to microchip pets and ensure microchips are registered with the manufacturer and have up-to-date information. Microchips are one of the most effective methods of reuniting pets with their owners.

Pet-specific disaster kits, plans

Every household with pets should prepare a pet-specific disaster kit to have on standby for emergencies. It should include:

• Two-week supply of food and water for each pet
• No-spill dishes or bowls for food and water
• Leashes, harnesses and carriers
• Blankets, towels or bedding
• Photocopied veterinary records and two-week supply of any necessary medication

• Waste bags and cleaning supplies

• Litter and a travel litterbox for cats
• Comfort items like toys or blankets to reduce stress
• Pet-specific first aid kit
• Microchip information including microchip number, name and phone number of the microchip company
• Your contact information and emergency contacts (i.e. family, friends, neighbor and veterinarian contact information)
• Recent photographs of your pet in case they go missing

Creating a disaster plan and assembling a pet emergency kit are essential steps to ensure your animals stay safe and healthy during a crisis.

By proactively preparing for wildfires and other natural disasters, pet owners can significantly reduce risks, protect their beloved animals and contribute to a safer and more efficient disaster response. Thoughtful planning not only protects pets, it also strengthens community resilience in times of crisis.

Editor’s note: Kimberly Root is director of marketing and communications for Phoenix-based nonprofit Arizona Animal Welfare League, the state’s oldest and largest no-kill shelter. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.