Preparedness for Pets

Pets and animals need special consideration when creating a household emergency plan. Try not to leave pets behind during an emergency or evacuation, and never leave pets chained up outside if the household has to leave suddenly.

• Be sure to license and microchip your pet.
• Establish a designated caregiver for your pets in the event that you are not able to take care of them yourself. Your pets' designated caregiver should know how to access your animals in case you are not home, where their necessary supplies are stored, and any housing, feeding, or medical considerations involved with taking care of your pet. Be sure to include your designated caregiver's contact information in your pet licensing information.
• Identify pet friendly places to stay. For public health reasons, most emergency shelters do not accept pets, only service animals, although pet shelters may be opened during an emergency.
  • Find pet friendly hotels as part of your evacuation route. Keep contact information for these hotels in your pet emergency kit.
  • Consider asking an out-of-town friend or relative to watch your animals
• Include your pet's veterinarian contact information and copies of any important medical records in your pet emergency kit.

As you create your own household emergency kit, create one for pets as well! This list will help you get started:

• Water. At least 3 gallons of water specifically for each pet.
• Food. At least a 3 day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.
• Medicines and medical records.
• First aid kit. Include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, non-latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Keep in mind that adhesive bandages may cause irritation to animals.
• Spare collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag, and a leash.
• Crate or pet carrier. Have a sturdy crate or pet carrier in case you need to evacuate. You can store emergency supplies in the carrier when not in use.
• Sanitation. Pet litter and a litter box if needed. Include plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach for cleaning.
• A photo of you and your pet together. This can help with reunification if you and your pets are separated, and helps document your ownership. Write down species, breed, age, sex, color, distinguishing characteristics, and your contact information on the back of the photo.
• Comfort items. Bring a favorite treat or toy to reduce pet stress.

See a downloadable version(PDF, 825KB)  of this list with additional information. En español(PDF, 548KB) .

Kirkland Animal Services
Information about pet licensing, animal sheltering, animal control, and more in Kirkland.

Pet Preparedness Template(PDF, 825KB)
Download a template to help you prepare your pets for emergencies.

Everett Animal Shelter
The City of Kirkland contracts with the Everett Animal Shelter for the sheltering and care of the City's stray animals.

American Humane Society
The American Humane Society helps respond to animals in need during emergencies.

Preparing Makes Sense for Pet Owners
A video from the Federal Emergency Management Agency with more animal preparedness information.