Emergency Services

When disaster strikes—whether it’s wildfire, flood, earthquake, or another emergency—every second counts. For those with pets or livestock, preparing in advance can mean the difference between life and death. While human evacuation often takes priority, many heartbreaking stories come from those who were forced to leave animals behind or had no plan in place to save them.

Here’s how to make sure you’re ready to evacuate your pets and livestock when disaster hits.

Have a Plan and Practice It

The most important step is to make a plan before you need it. Identify multiple evacuation routes in case one is blocked. Know where you can take your animals—research pet-friendly shelters, boarding facilities, veterinary clinics, and friends or family outside the danger zone who can offer safe housing.

For livestock, connect with nearby ranchers, fairgrounds, or agricultural centers that can house large animals in an emergency. Create a network with neighbors or local animal response teams who can help move animals if you’re not home.

Once you have a plan, practice it. Load animals into carriers or trailers occasionally so they are familiar with the process and equipment. A dry run will also show you how much time you actually need to evacuate safely.

Pack a “Go Bag” for Every Animal

Every pet and animal should have an emergency kit, just like you do. For pets, this includes:

• A sturdy carrier or crate

• At least 3–7 days of food and water

• Bowls and feeding supplies

• Medications and vet records (especially proof of rabies vaccination)

• Litter and disposal bags

• Comfort items like blankets or toys

• A photo of you with your pet (in case you are separated)

For livestock, essential supplies include:

• Halters and lead ropes

• Water buckets and portable feed

• Copies of health records and ownership documents

• Identification tags (or photos showing your animal and its markings)

Keep kits in an easy-to-reach location and check them regularly to replace expired items.

Make Identification a Priority

Collars and tags are important, but microchipping is even better—especially for pets that may lose their collars during a disaster. For livestock, consider branding, tagging, or using washable livestock markers to label animals with your contact information.

Make sure all animals are recorded in a written or digital inventory with recent photos and descriptions. This will help with reunification if they get lost or separated from you during evacuation.

During the Evacuation

Evacuate early if you can. Waiting until the last minute is not only risky but may mean you’ll be forced to leave animals behind due to road closures or time constraints. Load animals calmly and carefully. Keep pets confined in crates or on leashes during transport, and never leave them unattended in vehicles.

For livestock, make sure trailers are road-ready, and keep extra fuel on hand. If evacuation isn’t possible, have a shelter-in-place plan that includes safe structures, ample food and water, and access to ventilation or protection from weather.

After the Disaster

Even once the danger has passed, displaced animals may be scared, disoriented, or injured. Keep them confined and monitor them closely. Contact your vet for a wellness check and update authorities if your animal is missing.

Check fences and enclosures for damage before releasing animals back into their normal environment.

Preparedness Saves Lives

Disasters can happen without warning. Taking time now to create an evacuation plan for your pets and livestock gives you peace of mind—and could save the lives of your animals. Whether you’re responsible for a single dog or an entire herd, being prepared is the most powerful tool you have.