The words State of Emergency are in bold on a dark red and black background.

Prepping Your Pets for Emergencies

Floods. Fires. Blackouts. Cyclones. If you live in Australia, you know the drill — but does your pet?

We’ve all got our emergency go-bags and torches stashed in cupboards (hopefully). But prepping your pets? That’s a whole different level of planning. And if you’ve ever tried to evacuate with a panicked cat, a goldfish bowl, and a wet dog under one arm, you know exactly why it matters.

Let’s break it down into something practical, doable, and kind of entertaining — because prepping doesn’t have to be doom and gloom.

Labrador holds a first aid kit in it's mouth, in an outdoor setting.

🐾 1. Create a Pet Emergency Kit

Just like us, your pet needs an emergency stash ready to grab and go. Here’s what to pack:

  • Food & Water – At least 3–5 days’ worth, plus bowls
  • Leads, harnesses, carriers – Make sure they’re in good nick
  • Blankets or bedding – Comfort counts in chaos
  • Medications & pet health records – Keep in a waterproof pouch
  • Poo bags / litter / gloves – Sanitation isn’t just for humans
  • Toys or chews – Something familiar to soothe nerves
  • Photos of your pet – In case you’re separated
  • Rescue Remedy or pet-safe calming support – A little bottle of calm can go a long way

Pop it all in a waterproof container or sturdy backpack. One per pet if you’ve got a little zoo at home. Label everything — your sleep-deprived future self will thank you.

 

🐕 2. Practice Makes Prepared

Don’t wait for disaster to introduce your pet to their carrier. Whether it’s a dog crate, a bird cage, or a cat carrier, let them get used to it now. Toss treats inside. Feed them in it. Make it their safe zone, not a panic trap.

A quick “grab-the-kit-and-go” drill can be eye-opening. Spoiler: you’ll forget the lead the first time.

Labrador holds a blue leash in it's mouth.

🐈 3. Shelter Smarts – Know Where You Can Go

Not all evacuation centres allow animals. Plan ahead:

  • Find pet-friendly friends or family
  • Check which local kennels or vet clinics offer emergency boarding
  • Note your council’s pet policies during disasters

Print the list. Keep it in your kit.
And if you’ve got chickens 🐔, guinea pigs 🐹, or cockatoos 🐦 — have a travel plan. You won’t be googling “can I evacuate with a duck?” when the floodwaters rise.

 

🐟 4. Don’t Forget the Tank Crew

Fish, reptiles, and amphibians need some love too:

  • Battery-powered air pump – a lifesaver during blackouts
  • Heat pack or insulation – crucial for tropicals
  • Pre-treated water – keep a few bottles handy
  • Evac buckets – lidded, half-full with tank water

They might not do tricks or snuggle, but they’re part of the family.

 

🐾 5. Microchip & ID – Not Just a Vet Thing

Check your pet’s microchip details. Update their collar tags.
In a crisis, the last thing you want is a missing pet with no ID.

A white and tan cat, lies in the arms of it's owner, safe and sound.

🧠 Bonus Tip: Calm the Chaos

Your energy = their energy. A few tricks to keep things mellow:

  • Calming sprays, Rescue Remedy, or safe essential oils
  • Familiar scents and toys
  • Gentle music or white noise
  • Lick mats or chewy distractions

You’re their safe place — even in a blackout with soggy socks and no coffee.

 

Final Thoughts 🧡

Emergencies are never fun — but a little planning can make all the difference.

Want more practical pet tips? Join my email family or browse our Winter Warmers Collection — because even emergency prep can come with style.

Stay safe,


Majella 🐾
Majella’s Pet Store – Where pets and planning go paw in paw

 

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