Food and Water
Over the last few years, we know that when there is disaster or a shortage that products fly off the shelves and are not available when you go to the shops. It is a good idea to have a storage of your pets favoured food and treats, so that if you need to bunker down at home, or evacuate, you know that your pet will not go hungry. Pack at least three days’ worth of food and fresh water for your pet, ideally you would have seven days of supplies.
Food bowl
Have you ever been on a picnic and forgot to pack the plates, or a cup, or a knife or fork? It is very annoying, and often makes it difficult to eat and enjoy the treat. This is the same for our pet! Be sure to pack a small portable food and water bowl that is easy to pack and carry.
Medications and medical record
If your pet takes medication regularly it is useful to have a surplus, this way there is no danger of running out of their medication while your source more. If your pet takes a medication that is unable to be purchased in bulk, then make sure you take a copy of their script with you. Print out the script and put it in the pet kit. It is a good idea to also email yourself the script.
If you have a medical record for your pet, put the hardcopy in the pet kit. If you don’t have a hard copy, then print it out. As a backup you should also take photos of the medical record and email it yourself.
Comfort item
We all need items that make us feel safe and secure, particularly when we are in an unfamiliar place. Be sure to pack a comfort item like a favourite blanket and a few toys to help reduce stress.
Identification Information
If you and your pet become separated, or their ID tag has fallen off, it is a good idea to put an extra ID tag in your kit. Make sure that your contact information is up to date! Be sure to put a recent photograph of your pet and a photo of you and your pet in your kit. This way, you will be able to put up a notice about your missing pet, with a photo.
Emergency Contact Card
Get a piece of paper and write down the phone number of your vet, closest 24-hour veterinary emergency hospital and any pet poison helpline. Put the paper in a zip lock plastic bag. If you are unable to use the internet, these numbers will come in handy.
Hygiene
When you are stressed the last thing you want to worry about it not having a space for your pet to go to the toilet. Put pet waste bags, litter and a disposable litter tray in your pet kit. Also put in a large hand sanitiser, a roll of paper towels and some gloves. If you have space pack grooming supplies like soap, shampoo and clippers.
First Aid Kit
Having a crate in your kit ensures that you can safely and securely transport your pet. Make sure you select a create that is big enough for your pet to stand and change position in. If you away from your home, this also protects your pet from the outside world.
Transport Aids
Having a crate in your kit ensures that you can safely and securely transport your pet. Make sure you select a create that is big enough for your pet to stand and change position in. If you away from your home, this also protects your pet from the outside world.
Cosy Bed
Most dogs and cats prefer more luxurious sleeping arrangements for their overnight accommodation. Be sure to pack a blanket, mat or oversized cushion in your kit. This way your pet can feel warm and cosy and will help them feel more secure.
Wrapping it up
These ten must have items for your pet will ensure that you are prepared and ready to protect your pet in any circumstance. Start building up your supplies, and before you know it you will have a complete kit ready to go!
